Necrotizing enterocolitis in Black neonates.

Several years ago neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NNE) was commonly seen in an open ward for premature babies at Baragwanath Hospital, which was affected by recurrent outbreaks of gastro-enteritis and Salmonella infections. Since outbreaks of infection have been prevented, NNE has been uncommon, in spite of a high incidence of babies of low birth weight, many of who experience neonatal shock from anoxia and hypothermia, conditions considered as predisposing to NNE. The animal experimental work on the protective function of breast milk against NNE is discussed, and it is suggested that the low incidence of NNE at this hospital is due to the establishment of breast milk banks and the encouragement of breast feeding for all neonates.