Blood test 'predicts which preterm babies will develop lung disease'

New research could lead to earlier intervention and improved outcomes for vulnerable infants.

Melbourne scientists have found tracking blood proteins in pre-term babies can predict which will go onto develop chronic lung disease, allowing for earlier intervention and improved outcomes.

The research, published in the journal EBioMedicine, involved 126 preterm babies born at the Royal Women's Hospital in Melbourne.

The babies' blood was tested at birth and again at three days of age. The researchers found that babies who developed chronic lung disease had higher levels of certain proteins in their blood at birth.

The research will soon be followed by an expanded study of 550 babies in Victoria.

The disease affects 65 per cent of preterm infants and results in lifelong chronic lung disease and disability.

Lead researcher Professor David Askin said the new test could help identify babies at risk of developing the disease, allowing for earlier intervention and improved outcomes.

"This is a very exciting finding," Professor Askin said.

"It has the potential to change the way we care for preterm babies and improve their long-term health outcomes."