Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in children

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) can affect babies born prematurely, whose lungs have not developed fully in the womb. It’s sometimes called chronic lung disease of prematurity or chronic neonatal lung disease. In this information, we explain what BPD is, how BPD is diagnosed and treated, and some of the complications that BPD can cause.

Person reading to a child

What is BPD and what causes it?

Babies diagnosed with BPD have usually had breathing problems from birth. These usually get better with time.
Person holding a coughing baby

What complications are associated with BPD?

If your newborn has been treated with oxygen or on a ventilator and has BPD they may have difficulty breathing and other complications later on.
Baby being checked by a doctor

What is the treatment for BPD?

Infants with mild BPD may not need any special treatment except oxygen. Others may need help.
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