ABSTRACT
This project examined the growth and respiratory status of 80 infants, 60 prematures and 20 term. Based on their birth histories, they were divided into four groups: 1) mechanically ventilated prematures with HMD, 2) prematures with HMD but no mechanical ventilation, 3) prematures with no problems, and 4) term babies without problems. The data gathered from these infants regarding respiratory infections and growth suggest that prematurity, HMDm and mechanical ventilation do not influence the respiratory outcome of neonates nor do they influence the eventual growth of these infants during the first year of life. The data also suggest that despite the poor environment conditions that accompany low economic status, this does not affect the respiratory status of these infants. Two cases of bronchopulmonary dysplasia were isolated from this study group, both belonging to the first group of prematures, and these two infants had more respiratory infections during their first year and had a delay in growth. (Auth)
