Which neonatal factor is correlated with higher risks of developmental delays?

Lower-than-normal weight for gestational age is associated with higher risks of developmental delays because it indicates that the infant has not received adequate nutrition and growth support during pregnancy. Infants classified as having low birth weight may experience various challenges that can negatively impact their neurodevelopment. These challenges can stem from factors such as prematurity, complications during pregnancy, and overall health disparities.

In contrast, higher-than-normal Apgar scores typically signify that a newborn is adapting well and does not indicate an increased risk of developmental delays. A full-term delivery suggests that the infant has completed the necessary gestational period to develop adequately, which reduces the likelihood of such delays. While male gender has been associated with a higher prevalence of certain developmental disorders, it is not as directly correlated with developmental delays as low weight for gestational age. Overall, growth and nutritional status at birth serve as critical predictors of neonatal health and future development.