What neonatal factor is associated with a higher risk of developmental delays?

Lower-than-normal weight for gestational age is associated with a higher risk of developmental delays due to several interrelated factors. Infants who are classified as being small for gestational age may experience more significant challenges due to their lower birth weight and possibly underlying health conditions, including issues with their growth and development in the early stages of life.

This lower weight can reflect inadequate nutrient supply during pregnancy, often linked to placental issues or maternal health factors, which can impact brain development, physical growth, and the overall health of the neonate. Furthermore, these infants may require more extensive medical care and monitoring, potentially leading to alterations in the nurturing environment necessary for optimal development.

In contrast, the other factors listed, while they may have implications for neonatal health, do not have as direct a correlation with developmental delays as being lower-than-normal weight for gestational age does. For instance, normal weight for gestational age suggests that the infant has met expected growth parameters, reducing the likelihood of developmental concerns. Advanced maternal age can introduce certain risks, but it does not consistently lead to developmental delays in neonates. Being a twin carries certain risks as well, but many twins are born healthy and can achieve normal developmental milestones.