Unveiling the Critical Importance & Management of Pre-Term Infants: NEOCON 2023 Spotlights Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS)

‘Every Newborn- Survive and Thrive’ is the theme for the 42nd Annual Convention of National Neonatology Forum (NEOCON) 2023 at Nagpur

The recent advancements in treatment options have significantly improved the management of neonates with Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS). At NEOCON 2023, the 42nd Annual Convention of NNF India held in Nagpur, top neonatology experts discuss crucial matters and progress in newborn care. Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS), is a severe condition affecting premature babies due to underdeveloped lungs. This convention serves as a platform to enlighten & create awareness about neonatal medicine, effective diagnosis and intervention for neonates and other neonatal issues.

Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Dr Binay Ranjan, explained that premature babies whose lungs are not fully developed can suffer from Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS), a condition marked by breathing issues and inadequate oxygen exchange. NRDS poses a significant risk to preterm infants. Therefore, it’s crucial that paediatricians, nurses, parents, and caregivers promptly recognize the symptoms of NRDS. Infants suffering from RDS may exhibit symptoms such as rapid breathing soon after birth, grunting with each breath, colour changes in their lips, fingers and toes, flared nostrils during breaths and chest retraction during breathing which causes the skin over their breastbone and ribs to sink in.

Globally, annually, there are 15 million premature births, with India accounting for 25% of them. A significant number of these infants are potentially at risk of respiratory complications. Neonatologist Dr. Ranjan Kumar Pejaver emphasized the urgency of this situation to manage the NRDS that will greatly impact a baby’s health. Swift diagnosis enables healthcare professionals to take immediate action, aiding the infant’s respiratory system and enhancing their survival odds and overall health condition. The conference highlighted the latest research and findings related to neonatal care, emphasizing the potential for these novel treatments to revolutionize the field.

The high prevalence of premature births in India is a cause for concern, as stated by Neonatologist and Paediatrician Dr Kamaldeep Arora. The health complications that these premature babies may face, primarily respiratory issues, are grave and necessitate prompt medical intervention. This alarming situation underscores the pressing need for enhanced maternal and neonatal healthcare services. Healthcare professionals and policymakers must heed this cautionary note and take action to upgrade maternal health facilities, broaden the reach of prenatal services, educate people about the perils of preterm birth, and bolster neonatal intensive care units.

The purpose of NEOCON 2023 is to enhance understanding of the indications, manifestations, and immediate medical care needed for NRDS management. It serves as a hub for disseminating knowledge and optimal methods in neonatology, specifically focusing on NRDS, stated Dr Jayant Upadhye, the Organizing Chairman of Neocon 2023. Progress in treatment methods is enhancing the handling of neonates suffering from Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS). The conference emphasized establishing the best care for each newborn while shedding light on the most recent research and discoveries related to neonatal care.

Dr Milind Mandalik, the Chief Organizing Secretary for Neocon 2023, stressed the significance of intervening early. He explained that promptly identifying and diagnosing can be crucial in preventing and controlling potentially fatal incidents, which can subsequently lower the death rate among premature babies. The high number of early births and resulting breathing problems in newborns emphasizes the need to invest in health facilities for mothers and children to ensure a healthier future for our children.”

The conference stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of providing optimal care for every newborn, pushing boundaries, and constantly redefining what is possible in neonatal medicine.