Educational level and socioeconomic status in patients born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A population-based study
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In brief
In brief
This Swedish population-based cohort study (1982-2015) found that 17% of CDH survivors failed to achieve any educational degree versus 10% of controls, though those who did graduate showed similar academic performance. Prematurity and prolonged hospitalization were identified as key risk factors for educational non-completion, highlighting the need for targeted neurodevelopmental support in this population.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Abstract
Background
Neurodevelopmental dysfunction is one of the most disabling outcomes for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) survivors and may have a long lasting impact in adult life.
Aim
To evaluate to which extent being born with CDH has an impact on the educational level and socioeconomic status as a proxy for neurocognitive development.
Material and methods
Nationwide, population-based prospective study of newborn children in Sweden from 1982 to 2015. School grades, highest educational level and income were assessed through Swedish public registries. Children above 15 years of age with CDH were compared with randomly selected controls.
Results
A significantly higher number of cases (17% vs 10%) did achieve neither a school nor a university degree. Among those who achieved a degree there was no difference in the highest level of education. The qualification points in elementary school did not differ, but in high school female cases had significantly lower qualification points than female controls. There were no differences in individual disposable income between cases and controls. However, males had higher income compared to females. Prematurity and a long hospital stay had a negative impact on educational level.
Conclusions
A higher proportion of children born with CDH compared to controls do not achieve a school degree. Among those who achieved a degree, the school achievements and educational level were similar to controls. Prematurity and a long hospital stay are risk factors for not achieving an educational degree.
Type of study
Prognosis study (high-quality prospective cohort study with 99% of patients followed to the study end point).
Level of evidence
Level I.
I for a prognosis study — This is a high-quality, prospective cohort study with 99% of patients followed to the study end point.