Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a life-threatening intestinal disease that primarily affects premature babies. It causes inflammation, infection, and tissue death (necrosis) in the intestines, which can lead to perforation (holes in the intestinal wall), severe infections, and even death if not treated promptly.
📌 Fact: NEC is one of the most serious and dangerous gastrointestinal emergencies in preterm infants, with a mortality rate of up to 30–50% in severe cases.
🩺 Why Are Premature Babies at the Highest Risk?
🔹 Underdeveloped intestines – Premature babies have immature digestive systems, making them more vulnerable to inflammation and bacterial overgrowth.
🔹 Weaker immune system – Their bodies are less capable of fighting infections, increasing the risk of intestinal damage.
🔹 Formula feeding instead of breast milk – Studies show that babies who receive breast milk have a lower risk of NEC because it contains protective antibodies and nutrients that strengthen the gut.
📌 Fact: NEC affects about 5-10% of preterm infants born before 32 weeks of gestation.
🚨 What Happens in NEC?
1️⃣ The intestinal lining becomes inflamed and damaged.
2️⃣ Bacteria invade the weakened intestine, causing infection and necrosis (tissue death).
3️⃣ In severe cases, the intestinal wall perforates (develops holes), allowing bacteria to leak into the abdomen, leading to sepsis (blood infection) and life-threatening complications.
📌 Fact: NEC can develop rapidly—sometimes within hours—making early detection and treatment critical.
📌 Final Thoughts
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe and life-threatening gastrointestinal emergency, primarily affecting premature babies. Early detection, feeding with breast milk, and prompt medical intervention are crucial to improving survival rates and preventing complications.
