Investigating health issues in children who were born prematurely
Official title: Clinical and Biochemical Features of Metabolic Dysregulation in Formerly Preterm Children
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11075282 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at kids aged 5-12 who were born early to see how their health might be affected as they grow up, especially regarding their lungs, weight, and risk of diabetes, so we can find ways to help them live healthier lives.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $712,365 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL169859-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11075282 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 5-12 who were born prematurely at less than 34 weeks of gestation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who were not born prematurely or are older than 12 years may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on children aged 5-12 who were born prematurely, examining their long-term health outcomes related to cardiopulmonary and metabolic conditions. The study aims to identify any hidden health problems that may arise from their early birth, such as issues with lung function, obesity, and diabetes. By analyzing biological markers and considering social factors that may affect their health, the research seeks to understand how these children can be better supported as they grow. The findings could lead to early interventions that improve their overall health and quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health monitoring and interventions for children born prematurely, potentially reducing their risk of long-term health complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that similar approaches to studying health outcomes in premature infants have yielded valuable insights, suggesting this study builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Austin, Eric Douglas — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Austin, Eric Douglas
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Screening and treatment of Chlamydia infection in pregnancy to help prevent preterm birth
This grant studies whether screening pregnant people for Chlamydia trachomatis and treating those who are positive can reduce the risk of preterm birth.
-
Preterm infant body composition and early-life health after NICU stay
This grant studies how body composition in very preterm babies relates to later brain development and risk of obesity or diabetes, with findings meant to improve care from NICU through early childhood.
-
Brain injury risk in preterm babies with heart disease and how surgery choices affect their brains
This project follows newborns with congenital heart disease born early to understand how their brains are affected and how different surgical approaches might influence outcomes.
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Xylitol to Prevent Periodontal Disease and Preterm Birth in Pregnancy and Early Childhood
A safe, inexpensive chewable gum approach using xylitol is tested to help pregnant people reduce gum disease and lower the chance of preterm birth and related child health problems.
-
Screening and treatment for Chlamydia infection to help prevent preterm birth
A study in pregnant people will test whether screening for Chlamydia trachomatis and treating it during pregnancy can reduce the risk of babies being born too early.
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PREEMIE PROGRESS: a family program to help parents of very preterm babies
A family-centered program that teaches parents how to care for very preterm infants, offers psychosocial support, and connects families with resources to address social needs.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.