Which statement best describes preterm birth as it relates to neonatal outcomes?

Which statement best describes preterm birth as it relates to neonatal outcomes?

• A. It is the leading cause of neonatal mortality
• B. It has no impact on neonatal outcomes
• C. It prevents respiratory distress
• D. It is the leading cause of maternal death

Answer: (A)

Preterm birth means delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, and the immaturity of organ systems—especially the lungs—puts the newborn at high risk for serious complications. This includes respiratory distress due to surfactant deficiency, apnea, infections, thermoregulation problems, hypoglycemia, and potential brain injury, all of which contribute to higher neonatal mortality and significant morbidity. Because these problems commonly occur in the neonatal period and can be life-threatening, prematurity is a leading cause of neonatal deaths worldwide, which is why this statement best describes the relationship. The other options don’t fit: prematurity does impact neonatal outcomes; it does not prevent respiratory distress (in fact, it commonly causes it); and it is not the leading cause of maternal death.

Preterm birth means delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, and the immaturity of organ systems—especially the lungs—puts the newborn at high risk for serious complications. This includes respiratory distress due to surfactant deficiency, apnea, infections, thermoregulation problems, hypoglycemia, and potential brain injury, all of which contribute to higher neonatal mortality and significant morbidity. Because these problems commonly occur in the neonatal period and can be life-threatening, prematurity is a leading cause of neonatal deaths worldwide, which is why this statement best describes the relationship.

The other options don’t fit: prematurity does impact neonatal outcomes; it does not prevent respiratory distress (in fact, it commonly causes it); and it is not the leading cause of maternal death.