Incidence of Metabolic Bone Disease in Preterms <32 Weeks Gestation in a Tertiary Care Center: A Prospective Observational Study

Background Metabolic bone disease (MBD) is an important cause of morbidity in preterms. Approximately 16%-40% of very low birth weight babies develop MBD. In low-income countries, its incidence may be higher. Objective To estimate the incidence of MBD in our population and to describe the clinical profile and the factors associated with it. Methodology Study design : A prospective observational study. Study participants : All preterm babies born 14 days) as the independent risk factors. Alkaline phosphatase was elevated only in 2.9% of cases. All anthropometric parameters showed a significant decrease in the MBD group at 40 weeks. Conclusion The incidence of MBD in ≤32 weekers in this study is similar to other studies from developed countries. In the majority, it will get manifested from 2 weeks of age. Progression to full feeds and starting of mineral supplementation should be addressed well.