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NEC prevention — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyNeonatalNEC preventionRACP Paediatrics

A 26-week premature infant is being established on enteral feeds. The parents ask about strategies to prevent NEC. Mother is expressing breast milk. What is the single most important protective factor against NEC?

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Correct answer: B — Continue breast milk feeds

Breast milk (maternal) is the single most important protective factor against NEC in preterm infants. It confers immunological protection through IgA, lactoferrin, oligosaccharides, and growth factors. Donor breast milk is the preferred alternative when maternal milk is unavailable. Formula feeding increases the risk of NEC.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – Necrotising Enterocolitis CPG; RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Neonatology