The exact incidence of NDE remains unknown mainly due to lack of uniform standards. We studied the extent and pattern for four yrs at this med. ctr. with third highest rate of HIV in N.Y. Dx was based on urine toxicology (UT) Maternal Hx of drug use (MHD) & neonates' Px. Included were all NICU admissions in 92 & 93 and only selective pts with high risks such as MHD. STD & lack of prenat. care, in 94 & 95. UT was evaluated for cocaine(COC), opiate & others. Results (Table) showed that the incidence increased from 92 to 93 (p<0.05) and between 94 & 95(P<0.02). The incidence in 1995 is highest ever reported from anywhere. Coc was most common, 66% to 88% but its incidence declined (P<001) in 1993. MHD was positive in about 2/3 & Px of neonate in about 4.5%. We conclude that 1) NDE may be highest in our neighborhood, 2) Coc remains the predominant drug, 3) MHD as indicator for diagnostic UT is inadequate for uncovering all cases. 4) Universal screening seems necessary at high risk medical centers.

Table 1
Full size table