Epidemiological trends among preterm infants with apnea. A twelve-year database review

This study sought to characterize trends in the diagnosis of apnea, associated comorbidities and complications, and 30-day readmission rates in preterm singleton infants.

The study design was a retrospective, longitudinal, observational study. 2003-2014 New York State Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System and New York City Vital Statistics databases were merged identifying preterm live singleton births. Hospitalizations of preterm newborns with and without apnea were compared; multivariable logistic regression and log-linear Poisson regression models applied.

Of 1,384,013 singleton births, 7.5% were identified as preterm. While relative risk of preterm birth rates declined (RR = 0.987, 95% CI = 0.982-0.991), the diagnosis of apnea increased significantly (RR = 1.069, 95% CI = 1.049-1.089). Multivariable analysis identified two apnea predictors, gastric reflux (OR = 3.19, 95% CI = 2.80-3.63) and early gestational age (OR = 0.83 for 1 week GA increase, 95% CI = 0.82-0.84). Preterm newborns with apnea were more likely to be readmitted within the first 30 days and total charges were 5.4 times higher.

While the preterm birth rate has declined the rate of diagnosis of apnea with associated comorbidities and complications has increased. Given the additional findings of higher 30-day readmission rates and charges, more multidisciplinary research appears warranted to identify ways to optimize the quality of high risk newborn care.