Variations in Pulse-Oxygen Saturation and Physical Development within the First 2 Hours after Birth Among Healthy Term Neonates Different Altitudes.

Abstract

This study aimed to examine early postnatal changes in pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2) and physical growth parameters during the first 2 hours following birth among healthy term neonates born at varying altitudes. A total of 963 healthy term neonates delivered in five regions at varying altitudes were enrolled. SpO2 levels were measured at multiple time points within the initial 2-hour postnatal period. Physical measurements including birth weight, body length, and weight-to-length ratio, were assessed and compared across altitudinal groups. Significant differences in SpO2 values were identified among neonates born at different altitudes (p < 0.05). SpO2 demonstrated a time-dependent increase following birth, with a general decrease in saturation levels observed at higher altitudes. No statistically significant differences were found in birth weight or weight-to-length ratio between groups. However, body length differed significantly across regions (p < 0.001). Healthy term neonates experience progressive increases in SpO2 during the early postnatal period, irrespective of altitude. Neonates residing at high altitudes, including those of Tibetan ethnicity, exhibit favorable physical development indicators.