Sex-Specific Effects of Nutritional Supplements for Infants Born Early or Small: An Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis (ESSENCE IPD-MA)

We undertook an individual participant data meta-analysis to explore the effect of macronutrient supplements given to preterm and small-for-gestational-age infants on their developmental, metabolic and growth outcomes. In this project, we found supplementation slightly increases early growth but did not improve later cognitive function or increase risks of diabetes and heart disease. Supplementation also improves motor function in toddlers, particularly for girls, although the long-term effects are unclear.

The protocol of ESSENCE IPD-MA project was published at BMJ Open available at doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2019-033438

The findings are published at Nutrients available at doi: 10.3390/nu14030418 and doi: 10.3390/nu14020392

The deidentified participant data analysed for the ESSENCE IPD-MA project remain the property of the ESSENCE-IPD Trialist Group. Researchers should contact the original trial investigator directly for access to these data. Attached are the statistical analysis plan and data dictionary. Researchers are able to use this information and the provided contact address (researchhub@auckland.ac.nz) to request further information through the Data Access Committee of the Liggins Institute. The Liggins Institute reserves the right to charge a fee to cover the costs of making data available, if needed, for data requests that require additional work to prepare.