Preterm birth and low birth weight in neonates with postnatal respiratory failure at a tertiary hospital in Viet Nam

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to evaluate the rate of preterm birth and low birth weight in neonates having postnatal respiratory failure.

Methods: A cross-sectional design was used in the study. There were 139 neonates with postnatal respiratory failure and 278 neonates without respiratory failure included in the study. Data on comorbidities, gestational age, and mechanical ventilation status were collected.

Results: Among neonates with respiratory failure, the rate of preterm birth (< 37 weeks) was 70.5%. The average gestational age and weight of the respiratory failure group were significantly lower compared to the control group (p < 0.001). Asphyxia, patent ductus arteriosus, and hyaline membrane were the most common causes of respiratory failure. The rate of neonates having less than 37 gestational weeks and requiring mechanical ventilation as treatment for respiratory failure was 73.5%, in which the proportion of neonates born before 32 gestational weeks was 47.1% (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: The rates of preterm birth and low birth weight among infants with respiratory failure in a tertiary hospital in Vietnam were significantly high. Causes of preterm birth and low birth weight were preventable and treatable if having appropriate care and treatment plan.