Long-term respiratory problems faced by babies born prematurely are known, generally, as either chronic lung disease (CLD) or bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
- Some premature babies require the use of a mechanical ventilator and extra oxygen to breathe; because their lungs are fragile, they may sustain injury in the process, and if the tissues inside the lungs become inflamed, they can break down, causing scarring.
- CLD is more common in Caucasian male babies.
- Babies with CLD may be at increased risk for respiratory infection.
How Children’s approaches chronic lung disease
Children’s Center for Healthy Infant Lung Development (CHILD) offers a comprehensive, team-based approach to maximize the growth and development of the lungs; CHILD is staffed by an experienced team of clinicians, all with specialized training in the care of infants and toddlers with lung disease. And Children’s unique Infant Follow-up Program tracks children from the time they leave the hospital until they are 3-4 years of age.