What is NEC?

Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a gastrointestial disease which typically affects premature babies. The disease creates both an infection and inflammation in the bowels. It is still rare in the Neonatal Intensive Care Units, but when a preemie gets it, chances of survival decrease dramatically.

NEC seems to occur within the first two weeks of birth. The baby usually has started milk feeding. There is still no known cause, only theories. The good news is that research continues. Doctors like Dr. Jae Kim are making their best efforts in finding the cause and prevention of NEC today.