A Longitudinal Study of the Growth and Development of Prematurely and Maturely Born Children: Part VI: Physical Development in Age Period 2 to 4 Years

In previous papers in this series (Drillien, 1958a, b; 1 959a, b, c) an account has been given of growth and development during the first two years of life of nearly 600 children of different birth weight. These children were born in two Edinburgh maternity hospitals, in the years 1953 to 1955. Approximately one-third of the group were 41 lb. or less at birth, one-third between 41 and 5 2 lb., and one-third mature controls. The sample includes over 100 pairs of twins. Details of selection and procedure are given elsewhere (Drillien, 1958a). All children in the survey have now reached the age of 4 years, and results are presented here of the analyses of weight and height measurements, in relation to birth weight, sex, whether single or multiple birth, and certain environmental and genetic factors.