Objective:

To investigate the association between maternal chronic conditions and the risk of severe neonatal morbidity or mortality (SNM-M) in newborns.

Key Findings:

• Newborns of mothers with multiple chronic conditions face higher risks of SNM-M.
• Adjusted relative risk of SNM-M increases with the number of maternal conditions: 1.26 for one, 1.58 for two, and 2.01 for three or more.
• Newborns of mothers with complex conditions (three or more affecting at least three body systems) had nearly double the risk of SNM-M.
• Cardiometabolic conditions significantly elevate the risk, especially when maternal conditions require hospitalization.

Interpretation:

The study emphasizes the importance of maternal health history in predicting neonatal outcomes, suggesting that chronic conditions can adversely affect newborn health through various mechanisms.

Limitations:

• Reliance on administrative diagnostic codes may limit accuracy.
• Absence of laboratory severity markers.

Conclusion:

Integrating maternal chronic disease history into prenatal assessments can enhance neonatal risk stratification and improve outcomes.