What does gestational age influence in newborn outcomes?

Gestational age is a critical factor in determining various outcomes for newborns, profoundly impacting their health and development. Infants born preterm, which means they have a gestational age of less than 37 weeks, often face an increased risk of complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, feeding difficulties, infection, and long-term developmental challenges. As gestational age increases, the risk for such complications typically decreases, leading to better overall health outcomes.

Additionally, gestational age influences not only immediate health but also longer-term developmental aspects, such as cognitive abilities and motor skills. Infants born closer to full term (around 40 weeks) generally have more favorable outcomes compared to those who are born preterm. This is because they have had more time to develop essential functions and systems in utero.

The other options do not accurately capture the comprehensive impact of gestational age. It is not true that it has no effect on complications, nor does it solely determine birth weight or only influence height, as the outcomes are multifaceted and interconnected. Thus, option B accurately reflects the significance of gestational age in newborn outcomes.