Risk factors associated with respiratory disorders in late preterm infants

Sachie Suga1, Ichiro Yasuhi1, Mikihiro Aoki1

  • 1a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Perinatal Center, NHO Nagasaki Medical Center , Omura City , Japan .

Insights

Respiratory problems are common in late preterm infants. Earlier gestational age, cesarean birth, and low Apgar scores are key risk factors for neonatal respiratory disorders.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Medicine
  • Perinatology
  • Pediatric Respiratory Health

Background:

  • Late preterm infants (34–36 weeks gestation) face significant risks for respiratory complications.
  • Identifying specific risk factors is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify independent risk factors for neonatal respiratory disorders (NRD) in Japanese late preterm infants.
  • To inform clinical management strategies for this vulnerable population.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective multicenter study of singleton late preterm deliveries (34–36 weeks gestation).
  • Exclusion of infants with congenital anomalies.
  • Definition of NRD included mechanical ventilation or nasal CPAP.
  • Analysis of perinatal risk factors.

Main Results:

  • A total of 683 infants were included.
  • NRD incidence was 13.7% at 34 weeks, 6.8% at 35 weeks, and 2.6% at 36 weeks.
  • Independent risk factors for NRD were earlier gestational age, cesarean birth, and low Apgar score.

Conclusions:

  • Earlier gestational age, cesarean delivery, and low Apgar scores are significant independent risk factors for NRD in late preterm infants.
  • Infants with these risk factors require management in an intensive delivery setting.
Abstract

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