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RDS

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Risk factors of neonatal RDS

Several risk factors contribute to the development of RDS. The greatest risk factor is low GA (gestational age) (see epidemiology).
Other risk factors are:

Birth asphyxia Hypoxia and acidosis reduce surfactant production.
Caesarean section A pre-labor caesarean section before 39 weeks gestation increased incidence of RDS. 24-48 hours before the onset of spontaneous labour the production of fetal lung fluid stops and resorbtion starts to occur and along with this surfactant is released.
Maternal diabetes Maternal diabetes delays surfactant maturation, in particular the formation of phosphatidylglycerol.
Male gender Male neonates are more likely to develop severe RDS than females.
Second born twin The second born twin carries a higher risk of developing RDS probably due to the prolonged labour
Caucasian race Caucasian race is more likely to develop RDS than other races

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