EC Paediatrics

Prematurity remains a significant contributor to neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aims to analyze the prevalence of preterm births at HMS Mirdif Hospital, Dubai, and identify maternal and fetal risk factors contributing to these cases. A retrospective case-control study was conducted on 654 neonates admitted to the NICU between January 2022 and December 2024, comparing 217 preterm infants (< 37 weeks gestation) with 437 term infants (≥ 37 weeks gestation). The study assessed short-term and long-term complications, maternal risk factors, and neonatal management strategies. Findings from this study will aid in developing targeted interventions to improve neonatal outcomes. Our findings identify several significant maternal and fetal risk factors. The management protocols implemented at HMS Mirdif Hospital demonstrated promising outcomes, comparable to international benchmarks.

 Keywords: Prematurity; Preterm Birth; Neonatal Outcomes; Maternal Risk Factors; Fetal Risk Factors; Epidemiology; Retrospective Case-Control Study; Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU); Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD); Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP); Gestational Age; Premature Rupture of Membranes (PRROM); Neonatal Morbidity and Mortality; Multiple Pregnancies; Maternal Diabetes; Maternal Hypertension; Antenatal Care; Low Birth Weight; Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS); United Arab Emirates (UAE) Neonatal Health

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