For the population-based prospective cohort study, researchers gathered data from 19 regions in 11 European countries in 2011 and 2012. The study included data on 4,594 preterm infants, born between 24 and 31 weeks.
Sign up for our FREE E-Weekly for more coverage like this sent to your inbox!
Of the 4,594 infants, 622 preterm babies were not exposed to corticosteroids before birth. Their mortality rate was 20.6 percent.
The study shows that administering corticosteroids to the mothers even just hours before delivery was associated with an immediate and rapid decline in mortality rates. Infants born three hours after corticosteroid administration had significantly lower mortality rates as compared to unexposed infants. Administering corticosteroids six to 12 hours before birth was linked to a 50 percent reduction in mortality risk.
“The infants of pregnant women at risk of imminent preterm delivery may benefit from [corticosteroid] use,” study authors concluded.
More articles on healthcare quality:
3 dead in San Diego County hepatitis A outbreak
Poor hand hygiene, other safety errors identified at NJ clinic where 40 were infected
Illinois ground zero for CRE in the US, suggest Chicago physicians
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.