Fat-free mass is associated with neurodevelopment outcomes in extremely preterm infants up to 3 years of age

Measurement of body composition, particularly fat-free mass (FFM), at term-equivalent age is associated with improved neurodevelopmental outcomes in extremely preterm infants. This study represents the largest cohort of extremely preterm infants in which FFM Z-Score rather than fat mass Z-Score, was positively associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes at 1, 2, and 3 years of age. Early gains in FFM appear to be critical for promoting favorable long-term neurodevelopmental outcome, underscoring the importance of targeted nutritional strategies.