Incidence and risk factors of postnatal growth restriction in preterm infants

AIM: Preterm infants are often significantly underweight at the time of hospital discharge. Growth impairment during early infancy can have permanent detrimental effects. We aimed to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of postnatal growth restriction (PNGR) in preterm infants. METHODS: This prospective study included 124 preterm infants in neonatal intensive care unit between January 2015 and June 2016. RESULTS: Of 140 preterm infants screened, postnatal growth retardation was detected in 46 babies (37%). Low gestational age was independent risk factors for PNGR. CONCLUSION: Clinicians should be aware of the presence of this morbidity when caring for preterm infants and to provide optimal enteral nutrition.