Which demographic is most commonly affected by RDS?

• A. Full-term infants
• B. Preterm infants
• C. Infants with congenital anomalies
• D. Infants born to diabetic mothers

Answer: (B)

Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) primarily affects preterm infants due to the immaturity of their lungs and the lack of sufficient surfactant, a substance that reduces surface tension in the alveoli and facilitates normal respiratory function. In preterm infants, the alveoli, which are the tiny air sacs in the lungs, are not fully developed, and their bodies often do not produce enough surfactant. As a result, these infants are at a higher risk for developing RDS, making early identification and management critical in this demographic.

Full-term infants typically have more mature lungs and adequate levels of surfactant, which significantly lower their risk of developing RDS. Infants with congenital anomalies or those born to diabetic mothers can have specific respiratory issues, but they are not the primary group associated with RDS; it is predominantly seen in those born before 37 weeks of gestation. Therefore, preterm infants remain the most commonly affected demographic when it comes to RDS.