Research overview
Necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe inflammatory bowel condition that significantly impacts neonatal health, leading to high rates of mortality and morbidity including neurodevelopmental disability and growth impairment. NEC primarily affects premature infants, causing symptoms such as feed intolerance, abdominal distension, and temperature instability.
This study focusses on assessing a clinical risk tool to improve the prediction and management of NEC to enhance overall outcomes for this devastating disease.
NEC is a critical health issue for premature infants, with an incidence rate of 6-10% in those weighing less than 1500 grams. The condition’s multifactorial nature, involving immature immune responses and microbial dysbiosis, necessitates comprehensive research to develop effective preventive and management strategies. Current preventive recommended strategies for ‘road to zero NEC’ include antenatal steroids, exclusive human milk feeding, and probiotic supplementation, while management involves antibiotics and surgical interventions.
This research aims to identify novel predictive markers and management protocols to reduce the incidence and severity of NEC. Improved prediction and early intervention could lead to better health outcomes, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays and minimising long-term complications such as neurodevelopmental impairments and growth issues. Ultimately, this research has the potential to significantly alleviate the health and socio-economic burdens associated with NEC, benefiting women, maternal, and newborn health on a broader scale.
Project researchers
Dr Gayatri Jape
Partners
King Edward Memorial Hospital
Funders
Women and Infants Research Foundation
Project timeline
2025 – 2026
