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Sudden Unexpected Postnatal Collapse in the Netherlands: A National Registry Study
Klasien A Bergman1, Ageeth N Rosman2, Irwin K M Reiss3,4
1Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Beatrix Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands, k.a.bergman@umcg.nl.
Neonatology
|March 30, 2026
Summary
Sudden unexpected postnatal collapse (SUPC) affects 11 in 100,000 infants. Home births show later onset and higher mortality, often linked to airway obstruction. Increased awareness and prevention are crucial for infant safety.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Neonatology
- Public Health
Background:
- Sudden unexpected postnatal collapse (SUPC) is a rare, life-threatening event with poorly understood incidence and risk factors.
- Existing data on SUPC primarily comes from in-hospital settings, potentially underrepresenting home-based events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence, causes, and circumstances of SUPC in the Netherlands.
- To compare SUPC events occurring in hospital versus at home, focusing on timing and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A web-based registry collected SUPC cases from April 2019 to April 2022 via the Dutch Paediatric Surveillance Unit.
- SUPC was defined as collapse within 24 hours of birth requiring positive pressure ventilation in eligible infants.
Main Results:
- 60 cases met criteria, with an annual incidence of 7-17 per 100,000 live births (average 11).
- Home-based SUPC (8 cases) occurred later (165 min vs. 60 min) and had higher mortality (37.5% vs. 6%) than in-hospital cases (52).
- Airway obstruction was implicated in half of cases, often due to preventable factors like reduced maternal vigilance or covering the infant's airway.
Conclusions:
- SUPC occurs in both hospital and home settings, with significant differences in onset timing and mortality.
- Preventable factors, particularly related to airway obstruction, contribute to SUPC.
- Enhanced awareness and preventative strategies are essential for reducing SUPC incidence and improving outcomes.
