Developmental Impact of NICU Exposures (DINE)

Basic Study Information

Purpose:
Entry into the DINE study requires prior enrollment in the Prematurity and Respiratory Outcomes Program (PROP) or the Impact of Respiratory Virus Infections and Bacterial Microbiome Shifts/PRISM study. If you have not participated in these studies in the past you will not be eligible for this trial. The DINE study will test the hypothesis that potentially avoidable NICU-based exposures contribute to the neuro-cognitive and somatic impairments prevalent among NICU graduates. This hypothesis is drawn from the documented impact of phthalate exposure on early development in term-born children, and the acknowledged presence of these toxic chemicals in the NICU. Third trimester in utero exposure to phthalates have been linked to poorer childhood performance in cognition, motor function, attention, hyperactivity and social behavior. Phthalate exposure is also associated with altered onset of puberty and asthma. The multi-site cohort and approach will clarify the role of NICU-based phthalate exposure on high-prevalence clinical outcomes.

Lead Researcher (Principal Investigator)

Lead Researcher:  Gloria Pryhuber

Study Contact Information

Additional Study Details

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