Risk factors for neonatal respiratory distress : Moroccan retrospective study

Aim: The aim of the study was to determine the risk factors for neonatal respiratory distress. Material and Methods: This retrospective analytical study was conducted at the National Reference Center for Neonatology and Nutrition at Children's Hospital, University Hospital Centre IbnSina of Rabat from January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2022. During the study period, 630 newborns who met the inclusion criteria were included in 2 groups: neonates with respiratory distress (n=421) and neonates without respiratory distress (n=209). The identification of risk factors was carried out using bivariate as well as multivariate analyses Results: 630 births were collected during this period Neonatal respiratory distress was multifactorial. Statistical analysis could reveal mostly maternal anemia (OR = 18.10; CI95 (7.5 -43.55); p < 0.05), diabetes (OR = 3.65; CI 95 (1.98-6.72); p = 0.001), caesarean section (OR = 4.23; CI 95 (1.54-11. 59); p = 0.001), prematurity (OR = 2.45; CI 95 (1.41-4.26); p =0.01). Discussion: Screening, management, and reduction of neonatal respiratory distress remain a crucial challenge, requiring early coordination between pediatricians and obstetricians to obtain reliable data and identify newborns at risk.