Chronic Lung Disease of Prematurity
Long-term respiratory problems faced by babies born prematurely are known, generally, as either chronic lung disease (CLD) or bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
- Somepremature 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 Boston Children’s approaches chronic lung disease
Boston Children’sCenter 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. Boston Children’s unique NICU Growth and Developmental Support Programs (GraDS) track children from the time they leave the hospital until they are 3-4 years of age.
