Epidemiology and Clinical Significance

• Incidence and Global Burden
  • HIE occurs in approximately 1–8 per 1000 live births globally (Lee et al., 2013).
  • Most significant neurological disorder in neonates (Ferriero, 2004; Volpe, 2008).
  • Incidence declining in some low-income countries due to improved obstetric care (Smith et al., 2000; Becher et al., 2007).
  • More than 90% of infants with HIE are born in middle- and low-income countries, reflecting a disproportionate global burden (Lee et al., 2013).
• Mortality and Morbidity
  • Severe condition with high morbidity and mortality:
    • 15–30% of affected infants die during neonatal period.
    • Additional 25–35% develop permanent neurological sequelae, including cerebral palsy (CP) and cognitive impairment (Volpe, 2008; Lee et al., 2013).