FREQUENCY OF HYPOCALCEMIA IN LATE PRETERM BABIES PRESENTING TO NEONATAL UNIT OF HAYATABAD MEDICAL COMPLEX PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background: Newborns, especially preterm infants, are vulnerable to disturbances in calcium homeostasis due to their immature parathyroid glands and organ systems. This results in hypocalcemia, more common in late preterm births, impacting neonatal health, requiring early detection, diagnosis, and management to prevent complications such as seizures or cardiovascular failure.

Objectives: To determine the frequency of hypocalcemia in late preterm infants and explore contributing factors for early diagnosis and management in a neonatal unit.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Hayatabad Medical Complex, Peshawar from june 2024 to dec 2024. with 145 late preterm neonates. Demographic data and serum ionized calcium levels were collected. Hypocalcemia was defined as serum calcium <1mmol/L. Statistical analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, using SPSS version 22 for data analysis.

Results: Of 145 late preterm neonates, 55% exhibited hypocalcemia. The mean serum calcium level was 0.95mmol/L (SD=0.15), with a p-value of 0.03, indicating significant correlation between gestational age and calcium deficiency.

Conclusion: This study highlights a significant prevalence of hypocalcemia in late preterm neonates. Early screening and management are essential to reduce associated complications, improving neonatal care. Proactive measures should be adopted in similar settings to prevent severe outcomes.