Association Between Different Feeding Methods and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Infants: A Retrospective Cohort Study.

Background

This study examines the relationship between feeding methods during the first 2 weeks post-birth-mother's own milk (MOM), donor human milk (DHM), and formula-and the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants. Materials and

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted on preterm infants (<32 weeks gestation or <1,500 g birth weight) admitted to Fujian Maternal and Child Health Hospital from March 2023 to February 2024. Infants were grouped by primary feeding method within the first 2 weeks after birth, defined as MOM, DHM, or formula contributing to ≥50% of total feeding. The primary outcome was BPD incidence; the secondary outcome included necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) stage II or higher, periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and sepsis.

Results

BPD incidence was lower in the MOM and DHM groups compared with formula (22%, 16% vs. 35%; p = 0.03). Adjusted odds ratios for BPD were 3.35 (95% CI 1.43, 7.85) in the formula group versus MOM and 6.48 (95% CI 1.47, 28.57) versus DHM, with no significant difference between MOM and DHM. NEC incidence was also lower in MOM and DHM groups (7.15%, 9.38% vs. 20.21%; p = 0.016). No significant differences were observed in ROP, PVL, or sepsis rates.

Conclusions

MOM and DHM reduce the risk of BPD and NEC in preterm infants, with DHM being as safe as MOM.