Comparison of Mortality Rates Between Late Preterm and Term Neonates
Naresh Kumar, Gurpreet Singh Chhabra, Preeti Malhotra, Gagandeep Kaur
Abstract
Background: During the newborn period, several extrinsic and intrinsic factors can be life-threatening for a neonate. Assessing the mortality rate and identifying the common causes play an important role in improving neonatal survival.
Aim: To compare mortality rates among late preterm (LPT) and term neonates
Materials and Methods: This case–control study included 100 LPT (34 0/7–36 6/7 wk) and 100 term (37 0/7–41 6/7 wk) neonates who were admitted in the NICU. The neonates’ gestational age, sex, and birth weight were noted. The neonates’ skin color (for cyanosis and icterus), Apgar score, and need for resuscitation were evaluated. The causes of NICU admission and duration of stay, health issues encountered, temperature instabilities, need for intravenous medications and mechanical ventilation, and mortality were recorded. The data were analyzed statistically.
Results: The mortality rate in LPT neonates (12%) was significantly higher than that in term neonates (4%). Of 12 deaths among LPT neonates, 58% died before 7 days of age and 42% died after 7 days of age.
Conclusion: LPT neonates are physiologically, anatomically, and metabolically premature and, thus, are at a higher risk of acute metabolic complications, long-term disabilities, and mortality compared with term neonates. Obstetric protocols must consider extending the pregnancy duration to avoid the incidence of LPT deliveries and their possible consequences.
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