Infants born prematurely are at increased risk for a gastrointestinal disease called necrotizing enterocolitis (nec), which occurs when the intestine is injured. The cause is unknown.

There have been several baby formula scares recently: melamine tainting, baby formula recalled for beetles, necrotizing enterocolitis, links to type 1 diabetes.

Lack of oxygen is a factor in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis (nec), a kind of gangrene of the intestine that can be fatal in premature babies.