The corrected gestational age (CGA) is a way to account for babies born prematurely. It's calculated by adding the number of weeks the baby was born early to their actual age.
For example, a baby born at 34 weeks gestation who is now 2 weeks old would have a CGA of 36 weeks.
CGA is used by healthcare professionals to track a baby's development and compare their progress to that of full-term babies.
This is because premature babies often experience developmental delays, and their growth and development are often tracked based on their CGA rather than their chronological age.
Here's why CGA is important:
- Accurate Assessment: It helps healthcare professionals understand the baby's developmental stage and identify any potential delays.
- Tailored Care: It guides treatment plans and interventions, ensuring that the baby receives the appropriate care for their specific needs.
- Monitoring Progress: It allows doctors to monitor the baby's progress and adjust treatment as needed.
Example:
- A baby born at 32 weeks gestation is now 4 weeks old.
- Their actual age is 4 weeks.
- Their CGA is 36 weeks (32 weeks gestation + 4 weeks actual age).
Note: CGA is often used in the first few years of a premature baby's life, as their development can be significantly impacted by their early birth.
