Benefits of probiotics in preterm neonates in low-income and medium-income countries: a systematic review of randomised controlled trials.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Although there is an overall reduction in underfive mortality rate, the progress in reducing neonatal mortality rate has been very slow. Over the last 20 years, preterm births have steadily increased in low-income and medium-income countries (LMICs) particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Preterm birth is associated with increased mortality and morbidity, particularly in LMICs. Based on systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs), many neonatal units in high-income countries have adopted probiotics as standard of care for preterm neonates. We aimed to systematically review the safety and efficacy of probiotics in reducing mortality and morbidity in preterm neonates in LMICs.

Design

Systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs.

Data source

SUBMITTER: Deshpande G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5728295 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature