# Risk factors of necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants: a meta-analysis

## TL;DR

This study identifies key risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants using a meta-analysis of multiple studies.

## Contribution

The study consolidates evidence on specific clinical risk factors for NEC in VLBW infants through a comprehensive meta-analysis.

## Key findings

- Small gestational age increases NEC risk in VLBW infants.
- Red blood cell transfusion and maternal hypertensive disorders are linked to higher NEC risk.
- Patent ductus arteriosus and sepsis are significant risk factors for NEC in VLBW infants.

## Abstract

This study aims to explore the primary risk factors for necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants through meta-analysis, providing scientific evidence for clinical prevention and treatment.

A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases for studies investigating risk factors for NEC in VLBW infants, covering the period from database inception to October 10, 2025. Eligible studies included case-control studies, cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Quality assessment was performed using the NOS and AHRQ scores. Data were pooled using Stata 15 software with a random-effects model.

a total of 16 research articles involving 179,289 patients included, meta-analysis results suggest that Small Gestational Age [OR = 1.35, 95% CI (1.14, 1.60)], red blood cells transfusion [OR = 1.75, 95% CI (1.26, 2.43)], maternal hypertensive disorders [OR = 1.27, 95% CI (1.03, 1.57)], patent ductus arteriosus [OR = 1.56, 95% CI (1.30, 1.88)], sepsis [OR = 1.87, 95% CI (1.22, 2.87)] were associated with NEC in very low birth weight infants.

This systematic meta-analysis consolidates and confirms previously reported associations between several clinical factors and the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis in very low birth weight infants. The findings support the association of small gestational age, red blood cell transfusion, maternal hypertensive disorders, patent ductus arteriosus, and sepsis with an increased risk of NEC.

PROSPERO CRD420251149565.