Birth in the Peruvian Andes: physical and behavioral consequences in the neonate

Child Dev. 1981 Sep;52(3):839-46.

Abstract

Full-term neonates of both sexes born without complications to healthy mothers at about 4,300 m or 14,000 feet (O2 pressure = 82 mm Hg) and at 150 m or 490 feet (O2 pressure = 150 mm Hg) above sea level were evaluated at 24--36 and 48--60 hours of life. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and behavioral responsivity was evaluated with the Brazelton Neonatal Behavioral Assessment Scale. The high-altitude infants were significantly lighter, shorter, and had a smaller arm circumference than the low-altitude infants. No differences were found in measurements of either head circumference or skin-fold thickness. In comparison with the low-altitude infants, the high-altitude infants presented more signs of behavioral immaturity in interactive and motoric processes. These results are similar to those reported for clinical cases of full-term underweight infants, newborns of toxemic mothers, and undernourished neonates.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Altitude*
  • Arousal
  • Birth Weight
  • Body Height
  • Cephalometry
  • Child Behavior
  • Child Development
  • Female
  • Hispanic or Latino / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn / psychology*
  • Labor, Obstetric*
  • Male
  • Peru / ethnology
  • Pregnancy