Parent priorities for research and communication concerning childhood outcomes following preterm birth.

Abstract

Children born preterm (before 37 weeks of gestation) are at risk for several adverse childhood outcomes. Parent priorities for research into these outcomes, and preferences for receiving information about these risks, have not previously been established. 149 parents of preterm children between the ages of 0 and 12 years from around the UK completed an online survey, circulated through social media. Parent priorities for research centre around prevention of difficulties and development of interventions. The majority of parents would prefer for communication to begin within the first year of the child’s life. Parents reported a knowledge gap among health visitors, early years educators and schools. Training for these professionals could improve the experiences of families and children.