EXAMINE THE EFFECTS OF IUGR ON NEONATAL RESPIRATORY MORBIDITY, INCLUDING RESPIRATORY DISTRESS SYNDROME AND BRONCHOPULMONARY DYSPLASIA

Background: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is associated with significant neonatal morbidity, particularly respiratory complications such as respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Objective: This study aimed to examine the effects of IUGR on neonatal respiratory morbidity and to evaluate long-term respiratory outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study was a multicenter study conducted during January 2024 to October 2024. A total of 225 infants, including both IUGR and appropriately grown neonates, to assess the relationship between IUGR and respiratory morbidity outcomes. Results: The incidence of RDS was significantly higher in the IUGR group (69.6%) compared to the non-IUGR group (26.5%), while the incidence of BPD was also higher in IUGR infants (40.2%) compared to non-IUGR infants (10.6%). IUGR infants required significantly longer mechanical ventilation (14.6 days vs. 4.5 days) and were more likely to receive surfactant therapy (75.9% vs. 22.1%). Long-term follow-up revealed that 20% of IUGR infants had residual respiratory issues at 6 months, compared to 5% in the non-IUGR group. Conclusion: IUGR is associated with a significantly higher risk of neonatal respiratory morbidity, including RDS and BPD, as well as prolonged mechanical ventilation and surfactant administration.