Impact of preterm birth on muscle mass and function: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Conclusion: Overall, this systematic review summarizing the existing literature on the impact of preterm birth on skeletal muscle indicates emerging evidence that individuals born preterm, display alteration in the development of their skeletal muscle mass and function. This work also highlights a clear knowledge gap in understanding the effect of preterm birth on skeletal muscle development.What is Known:• Preterm birth, which occurs at a critical time of skeletal muscle development and maturation, impairs the development of different organs and tissues leading to a higher risk of comorbidities such as cardiovascular diseases.• Preterm birth is associated with reduced exercise capacity.What is New:• Individuals born preterm display alterations in muscle mass and function compared to individuals born at term from infancy to adulthood.• There is a need to develop preventive or curative interventions to improve skeletal muscle health in preterm-born individuals.
Source: European Journal of Pediatrics - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research