A recent study conducted in collaboration between Norway and Finland has uncovered a significant link between premature birth, reduced motor skills, and lower levels of physical activity in adulthood. The research highlights how individuals born prematurely with very low birth weights tend to engage less in moderate-to-high intensity activities compared to those born at full term. By examining differences in gross motor skills such as walking, running, and jumping, the study provides valuable insights into potential interventions that could enhance lifelong health outcomes for this population.

Researchers from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) embarked on an investigation comparing adults born prematurely with very low birth weights to those born at full term. The study involved 87 participants from the former group and 109 controls, all aged between 31 and 42 years. Using advanced activity trackers placed on thighs and backs, the team monitored daily movements over an entire week. Their findings revealed that individuals born prematurely spent nearly 50 minutes less per week on moderate-to-high intensity activities like brisk walking or cycling. Moreover, these participants scored lower on assessments evaluating complex motor tasks, suggesting that motor skill deficiencies may account for about one-third of the observed activity gap.

The study utilized a revised high-level mobility assessment tool to evaluate various motor abilities, including quick forward and backward walking, hopping, and jumping. These tests demonstrated clear disparities between the two groups, reinforcing the notion that early-life challenges can have lasting impacts on physical capabilities. According to lead authors Silje Dahl Benum and Kristina Djupvik Aakvik, understanding these connections is crucial for designing targeted interventions aimed at improving overall health among prematurely born individuals.

While previous studies relied heavily on self-reported data, this collaborative effort stands out due to its precision. Each participant wore two activity trackers simultaneously, ensuring comprehensive tracking across multiple days. Furthermore, the results align with global health recommendations emphasizing regular exercise to mitigate risks associated with sedentary lifestyles. Despite meeting general World Health Organization guidelines for weekly activity levels, prematurely born individuals still exhibited reduced engagement in higher-intensity exercises.

This groundbreaking research underscores the importance of addressing motor skill development early in life. Implementing structured programs focused on stimulating gross motor skills during childhood could yield long-term benefits, enhancing both physical activity levels and overall well-being. As part of ongoing efforts led by NTNU's Low Birth Weight Life research group under Professor Kari Anne I. Evensen, collaborations extend globally to deepen our understanding of how low birth weight influences lifelong health trajectories.

Ultimately, the study emphasizes the need for tailored approaches to support prematurely born individuals in achieving optimal health outcomes. By recognizing and addressing specific motor skill deficits, healthcare providers and researchers alike can work towards reducing disparities in physical activity levels and promoting healthier lifestyles for all.