The Effects of Antenatal Dexamethasone on Survival and Health of Children

This thesis examines long-term health outcomes in children born preterm and exposed to antenatal corticosteroids (ACS), with a focus on low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). It comprises three studies: a review of child development outcomes in LMICs, an analysis of existing evidence on ACS’s long-term effects, and a follow-up study of children in Bangladesh from a WHO ACS trial. Findings indicate that many preterm children experience developmental difficulties, while the long-term effects of ACS are still unclear. The thesis also highlights major challenges in assessing child development in LMICs and calls for larger, long-term studies to improve care for preterm children.