Can early body fat checks help preterm babies grow healthier?

NCT ID NCT03575897

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Alabama at Birmingham Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This pilot study looks at whether regularly measuring body fat in very preterm infants (born at 28-32 weeks) can help reduce excess fat gain by 3 months of age. Researchers will use a special machine to measure body composition shortly after birth, at 32 weeks, and again at 36 weeks or hospital discharge. The goal is to see if early detection of fat changes can guide care and improve long-term health.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to better monitoring of body composition in preterm infants, potentially reducing future obesity risk.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 50 infants, so results may not apply to all preterm babies. It only measures body fat, not long-term health outcomes.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Body Weight Obesity obesity disorder Premature Birth

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ADIPOSITY BODY WEIGHT INFANT, PREMATURE

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, United States

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