People-born prematurely are more likely to grow up to be poor - in terms of both wealth and well-being, a new study has claimed. 

Fewer adults who were 'sugar-bag babies' - born prematurely at low-birth weights - were employed or had children, researchers. 

And they were also more likely to have lower incomes, be single and report more chronic health conditions than their normal-birth-weight-term counterparts.

The researchers said the first generation of extremely low-birth-weight (ELBW) premature babies - weighing less than 1,000 grams (2.2 lbs) - who were born after the introduction of neonatal intensive care has now survived into their fourth decade.

Dr Saroj Saigal, of McMaster University in Canada, compared the functioning of adults aged 29 to 36 who were ELBW with adults who are born at normal weight at term.

The study, published online by the journal JAMA Pediatrics, included 100 ELBW survivors and 89 normal-birth-weight control participants for comparison.

While the groups did not differ on the highest educational level achieved - or in family and partner relationships - the findings showed there were differences in other areas.

For example, ELBW survivors as adults were less likely to be employed, more likely to earn less money, more likely to remain single, have not had sex, and fewer had children.

Those born prematurely were also more likely to report more chronic health conditions, and to have lower self-esteem.

The ELBW survivors were also less likely to have current drug abuse or dependence or lifetime alcohol abuse or dependence.

A higher proportion of the adults born prematurely without neurosensory impairments also were likely to identify as bisexual or homosexual.

Dr Saigal said: 'Overall, the majority of extremely premature adults are living independently and contributing well to society.

'It is difficult to predict what the future will hold for these ELBW adults as they reach middle age in terms of their employment, income, family and partner relationships, and quality of life.

'It is therefore essential that these individuals receive necessary support and continued monitoring.'  

Written BY: Anna Hodgekiss

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