Prognosis for Low Birth Weight

Weight gain occurs at 9-12 months of life and more than half (56%) of infants have a normal weight a year after being born.

Low birth weight babies affecting their head circumference have a reserved neurological prognosis, while those with preserved head circumference usually have a good prognosis. They tend to be less active and respond less well to social stimuli, with sleep and eating disorders and lower school performance.

Adults with a history of low weight have a 10-fold increased risk of developing metabolic syndrome (non-insulin-dependentdiabetes, high blood pressure and hyperlipidaemia) and cardiovascular disease at age 65.