Abu Dhabi, UAE: SEHA’s Corniche Hospital has released findings from a landmark neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) study aimed at improving outcomes for very preterm infants and addressing chronic lung disease (CLD), one of the most serious complications of premature birth.

The retrospective study evaluated 161 infants born before 32 weeks of gestation, providing valuable insights into clinical outcomes, risk factors and opportunities to further strengthen neonatal care.

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The findings showed strong adherence to international best practices, with 95% of mothers receiving antenatal steroids and 84.5% of infants treated with surfactant therapy to improve respiratory outcomes. The overall mortality rate was 9.3%, comparing favorably with international benchmarks for similar high-risk populations.

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Researchers found that lower birth weight remains a major predictor of severe chronic lung disease, with affected infants requiring prolonged ventilation, oxygen therapy and facing a higher risk of complications such as sepsis. The findings support targeted prevention strategies, enhanced respiratory care and stronger infection prevention measures.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Ihab Elkadry, Neonatologist at Corniche Hospital, said: “For every premature baby who takes their first breath, a new story of hope begins. Our goal is to protect the fragile lungs of these babies while supporting their growth and development. Watching a baby who once struggled for every breath leave the NICU breathing independently is one of the most rewarding moments for our entire team.”