Evaluating Risk Factors and Frequency of Neonatal Hypoglycemia Admitted in NICU of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute

Background: Neonatal hypoglycemia is a common metabolic disturbance during the neonatal period and remains an important cause of neonatal morbidity. Early screening of at-risk neonates and prompt management are essential to prevent adverse outcomes. Objective: To determine the prevalence, clinical presentation, and associated risk factors of neonatal hypoglycemia among neonates admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute. Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in the NICU of Bangladesh Shishu Hospital & Institute from July to December 2024. All admitted neonates were screened for hypoglycemia (blood glucose <2.5 mmol/L). Detailed antenatal, natal, and postnatal histories, clinical features, birth weight, and gestational age were recorded. Neonates with congenital malformations, suspected inborn errors of metabolism, or maternal history of oral hypoglycemic agents or beta-sympathomimetic drug use were excluded. Data were analyzed statistically, and p<0.05 was considered significant. Results: Among 368 admitted neonates, 18 developed hypoglycemia, giving a prevalence of 4.9% (95% CI: 2.9–7.7%). Most admitted neonates were term (76.4%) with normal birth weight (76.1%); mean gestational age was 36.8±2.9 weeks and mean birth weight was 2.64±0.72 kg. Infant of diabetic mother was the most common associated risk factor (22.2%), followed by small for gestational age, prematurity and perinatal asphyxia (16.7% each). Refusal to feed (38.9%) and lethargy (27.8%) were the commonest clinical presentations. Infant of diabetic mother (OR 8.05, p=0.005) and small for gestational age (OR 5.18, p=0.037) were significantly associated with neonatal hypoglycemia. Conclusion: Neonatal hypoglycemia remains a significant concern in NICU settings. Routine glucose monitoring in high-risk neonates is essential for early diagnosis and prevention of complications J Dhaka National Med. Coll. Hos. 2026; 32 (02): 48-52