Many young adults in their early 20s who were born prematurely have lungs that are like those of a healthy older person or a casual smoker.
Premature infants are at increased risk for contracting bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a chronic respiratory condition mainly affecting infants born less than 28 weeks of age.
The condition primarily affects preterm infants who receive oxygen therapy to help them breathe. The higher levels of oxygen, as well as the increased pressure from the ventilator used for treatment, can result in tissue scarring in the lungs.
