1. What is Adjusted Age?

Adjusted age (or corrected age) is a calculation used for premature infants that accounts for their early birth by subtracting the weeks of prematurity from their chronological age. This gives a more accurate assessment of their development compared to full-term babies.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the adjusted age formula:

Where:

• Chronological Age — Actual time since birth in months
• Gestational Age — Weeks of pregnancy completed at birth
• 4.345 — Conversion factor (weeks to months)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the developmental difference between a premature baby and a full-term (40 week) baby.

3. Importance of Adjusted Age

Details: Adjusted age is crucial for properly assessing developmental milestones, growth patterns, and medical needs of premature infants. It helps prevent inappropriate comparisons with full-term babies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter chronological age in months (can include decimals for partial months) and gestational age at birth in weeks (between 22-40 weeks). The calculator will compute the adjusted developmental age.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Until what age should we use adjusted age?
A: Typically until 2-3 years chronological age, though this varies by individual and purpose (growth vs development).

Q2: How does adjusted age affect developmental milestones?
A: Premature babies often reach milestones closer to their adjusted age rather than chronological age, especially in the first two years.

Q3: Should vaccines be given based on adjusted age?
A: No, vaccines should always be given based on chronological age according to the standard schedule.

Q4: How does this differ for twins/multiples?
A: The same calculation applies - use each baby's actual gestational age at birth.

Q5: When do premature babies "catch up" to full-term peers?
A: Most catch up in growth by age 2-3 years, though extremely premature babies may take longer.