Graduate Research Degree Awarded - Maria Guadalupe Alda

Congratulations to Maria Guadalupe Alda - Doctor of Philosophy Awarded 8 September 2026

Degree: Doctor of Philosophy
Supervisors: Dr Julia Kate Charlton, Dr Teresa Mary MacDonald, Prof Amanda Wood
Advisory Committee: Prof Jonathan Payne

Thesis Title: Neonatal and Early Developmental Outcomes Associated with Small for Gestational Age and Suspected Fetal Growth Restriction in Preterm Infants

Thesis Summary:

This thesis investigated how impaired fetal growth and prematurity influence neonatal health and early development in preterm infants. It compared antenatal suspicion of fetal growth restriction with postnatal small-for-gestational-age classification and examined neonatal and developmental outcomes during the first year of life. Small for gestational age infants had distinct neonatal risks; however, average developmental outcomes at 12 months were similar to those of appropriately grown preterm infants. Birthweight and gestational age independently predicted developmental outcomes, with birthweight mediating some of the association between small for gestational age status and development. These findings highlight the importance of considering fetal growth, birthweight and prematurity together when identifying preterm infants who may benefit from closer developmental follow-up.

Date awarded: 8 September 2026