To evaluate the survival rate and major morbidities of extremely preterm infants (EPIs) in Shenzhen and identify factors associated with survival without major morbidity.
Approach:
Study Design: A prospective multicenter study collecting clinical data from preterm infants with gestational age < 28 weeks across 21 hospitals in Shenzhen from January 2022 to December 2023.
Data Collection: Data on baseline characteristics, survival outcomes, and major morbidities were analyzed according to gestational age groups.
Outcome Measures: Primary outcome was survival status at discharge or at 40 weeks postmenstrual age; secondary outcomes included incidences of major morbidities.
Key Findings:
Overall survival rate among EPIs was 74.52% (234/314).
Survival without major morbidity was achieved in 24.20% (76/314) of infants.
Major morbidities among survivors included: moderate-to-severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (48.72%), severe intraventricular hemorrhage and/or periventricular leukomalacia (13.25%), necrotizing enterocolitis stage ≥ 2 (6.41%), sepsis (22.65%), and severe retinopathy of prematurity (42.31%).
Antenatal corticosteroid use, increasing gestational age, and higher birth weight were independent protective factors for survival without major morbidity.
Interpretation:
The study provides data on survival and morbidity among EPIs in Shenzhen, noting the survival rate and the prevalence of major morbidities.
Limitations:
The study was conducted in a single city, which may limit generalizability to other regions.
Data may be influenced by regional healthcare practices and resources.
Conclusion:
The study indicates that while survival rates for EPIs in Shenzhen are relatively high, the burden of major morbidities remains significant.
