Which statement about the Fenton chart is true regarding its validation data sources?

• A. It included NICHD Network data and CDC growth charts
• B. It included only hospital-based data
• C. It did not include intrauterine data
• D. It used only adult data

Answer: (A)

Understanding how a preterm growth chart is validated requires recognizing that its estimates are tested against diverse, independent datasets to ensure they reflect real-world growth across populations. The Fenton chart’s validation used data from the NICHD Neonatal Research Network, which collects growth measurements from multiple NICUs, providing robust multicenter postnatal preterm data. It also incorporated the CDC growth charts as a reference standard for postnatal growth during the term period, helping to benchmark the preterm trajectories against a widely used pediatric reference. This combination ensures the centiles are reasonable across both preterm infants and the transition to term growth. It is not limited to hospital-based data only, it does include intrauterine references in its development, and it is not based solely on adult data.