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

Abstract

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.