Peer-reviewed article

Anxiety and mood disorders from childhood to adulthood in very preterm and term-born individuals.

Tsalacopoulos N, Mainzer RM, Thompson SCH, Treyvaud K, Pascoe L et al. · 15 Aug 2026

Abstract

Background Very preterm (VP) birth has been associated with higher rates of anxiety and mood disorders, but the emergence and persistence from childhood to adulthood is unknown. This study examined prevalence rates and early risk factors of these disorders in VP and term-born individuals. Methods In a prospective sample of VP (<30 weeks' gestation or birthweight <1250 g, n = 191) and term-born individuals (n = 69), anxiety and mood disorders were assessed using structured interviews at 7, 13 years and 20 years. Perinatal, neonatal and social environmental information was collected at birth and 2 years. Results Rates of anxiety and mood disorders increased from childhood to adulthood, but only subtle differences were observed between VP and term-born groups. Among VP individuals, higher social risk at 2 years increased the odds of anxiety or mood disorder (OR 2.51, 95% CI: 1.18, 5.35). Conclusions Prevalence of anxiety and mood disorders increased from childhood to young adulthood for both birth groups, with the largest between-group difference observed for anxiety disorder at 13 years. Higher social risk was the main risk factor for VP individuals. Early identification and support for families with higher social risk may reduce mental health difficulties in VP individuals. Impact There is evidence that very preterm (VP) birth is associated with higher rates of anxiety and mood disorders, but how these conditions emerge and persist from childhood to adulthood is unknown. Rates for anxiety and mood disorders increase from childhood to adulthood, but the developmental trajectory for VP individuals is similar to that of term-born peers. Social risk factors consistently influence mental health outcomes across development. Early assessment and targeted support for VP individuals and families facing socio-economic disadvantage may promote positive long-term mental health outcomes.