<qa>  What is the most important factor in NEC development?Necrotizing enterocolitis NEC is a serious gastrointestinal disorder that primarily affects preterm infants. About 10 of babies less than 32 weeks gestation at birth will develop it. Overall, 30 of babies who develop NEC will die from it, with many others developing long term gastrointestinal problems. The most important factor in its development is a premature intestinal tract. Epidermal growth factor EGF is an important growth factor in the development and maintenance of the gastrointestinal tract. This study will look for a relationship between EGF levels in premature babies and the development of NEC. 