Background :
Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) in neonates is one of the most common causes of neonatal mortality. This study aimed to investigate socio-demographic, maternal, and neonatal factors associated with RDS in a tertiary care hospital setting.
Methods :
This cross-sectional study was conducted at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Ad-din Women’s Medical College Hospital from 1st January to 31st December 2017. A total of 186 purposively selected neonates were included. Data were collected through document review and face-to-face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire and checklist.
Results :
Regarding maternal factors, 61.3% of mothers had at least four antenatal checkups and 87.1% had institutional delivery. Caesarean delivery was present in 52.7% of cases. Maternal comorbidities included hypertension (17.2%), diabetes mellitus (10.8%), oligohydramnios (14%), and PROM (37.1%).
RDS was more common in preterm neonates (<37 weeks, 85.5%) and low birth weight infants (<2500 g, 90.3%). Multiple pregnancy accounted for 28% of cases. Clinical features included grunting in 62.4% and chest retraction in 92.5% of neonates.
Conclusion :
Although many risk factors for RDS are not preventable, they are predictable with proper antenatal care. Early identification of high-risk pregnancies can help ensure timely diagnosis and management, thereby reducing neonatal mortality.