Investigating the long-term effects of DHA supplements in toddlers born preterm
Long-term Effects and Safety of DHA Supplementation in Toddlerhood for Children born Preterm
This study is looking at how giving DHA, a type of healthy fat, to toddlers who were born early might help their thinking and language skills as they grow, and it’s for families with preterm children who want to know if this supplement can make a difference in their child's development.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10875660 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research examines how DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) supplementation during toddlerhood affects cognitive development in children born preterm. It aims to determine whether children who received DHA at age 1 show differences in cognitive abilities, language skills, and executive function compared to those who received a placebo. The study continues to follow participants from a previous trial to assess these long-term outcomes and explore genetic factors that may influence the effects of DHA. By understanding these impacts, the research seeks to ensure that interventions for preterm children are both safe and effective.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children who were born preterm and received DHA supplementation during their toddler years.
Not a fit: Patients who were not born preterm or did not receive DHA supplementation are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into safe dietary interventions that enhance cognitive development in children born preterm.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated potential adverse effects of DHA supplementation, making this investigation both relevant and necessary.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, United States
- Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keim, Sarah — Research Inst Nationwide Children's Hosp
- Study coordinator: Keim, Sarah
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 below.