Most impoant risk factor for neonatal respiratory, distress syndrome -

Ans. is 'c' i.e., Prematurity Hyaline membrane disease (HMD) or respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) o HMD always occurs in preterm babies often less than 34 weeks of gestation. o It is the commonest cause of respiratory distress in a preterm neonate. o Predisposing factors for HMD are -4 Prematurity (most impoant), asphyxia, acidosis, maternal diabetes, multiple bih, cesarean section delivery, cold stress and a history of previously affected infants. o Incidence is highest in preterm male and white infant. o Risk is reduced in pregnancies with pregnancy associated hypeension, maternal heroin use, prolonged rupture of membranes, and antenatal caicosteroid prophylaxis