What is a common developmental concern for preterm infants?

Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) is a significant concern for preterm infants due to their underdeveloped lungs and insufficient surfactant production. Surfactant is a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli, preventing their collapse and aiding in proper lung expansion. Preterm infants, especially those born before 34 weeks of gestation, often lack adequate amounts of surfactant, resulting in difficulty breathing and inadequate oxygenation.

In the context of developmental concerns specifically associated with preterm birth, RDS is prevalent because the condition can lead to further complications and affect long-term lung function and overall development. Addressing RDS promptly is crucial, as it can impact the infant's transition to extrauterine life and lead to further interventions in a neonatal intensive care setting. This makes it a primary concern among health care providers in managing the care of preterm infants. Other conditions mentioned, such as congenital heart defects and jaundice, while important, are not inherently linked to the premature status as directly as respiratory distress syndrome.