[A comparative follow up study about intellectual and motoric development of premature births at three to eight years of life (author's transl)].

In a study involving 361 cases an average IQ for 101 was noted; the premature birth groups showed an average IQ of 99 and the control group an average IQ of 102. Statistically significant was the occurrence of mental retardation in the premature birth group when compared with the control group. In the premature birth group an delayed walking ability showed a correlation to a diminished birth weight. A correlation between a low asphyxion-Index and IQ could not be ascertained. In the areas of speech development, walking ability and bladder control no significant differences were noted between premature birth and control group.