[Late preterm newborn: follow-up recommendations]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal Health
• Public Health Trends
• Pediatric Morbidity

Context:

• Increasing rates of prematurity globally, primarily driven by late preterm births.
• Late preterm infants (34-36 weeks gestation) are often presumed healthy due to appropriate weight, masking significant risks.
• Existing healthcare models may overlook specific morbidities associated with late preterm infants.

Purpose:

• To highlight the overlooked health risks and morbidities in late preterm newborns.
• To discuss the short- and long-term consequences of these health issues.
• To advocate for a holistic and interdisciplinary follow-up care strategy for late preterm infants.

Summary:

• Late preterm births are a major contributor to rising prematurity rates.
• These infants face risks including neurodevelopmental delays, behavioral issues, and organ immaturity, which are frequently underestimated.
• Effective management requires recognizing these risks and implementing comprehensive, multidisciplinary care plans.

Impact:

• Improved identification and management of late preterm infant morbidities.
• Potential reduction in long-term health complications and associated healthcare costs.
• Enhanced clinical guidelines and healthcare provider awareness regarding late preterm infant care.