What is a common complication observed in newborns with cystic fibrosis?

Meconium ileus is a common complication observed in newborns with cystic fibrosis. In cystic fibrosis, thick and sticky mucus obstructs the intestines, leading to a condition where the meconium, which is the first stool of a newborn, cannot pass. This results in meconium ileus, characterized by abdominal distension, bilious vomiting, and failure to pass stool within the expected timeframe after birth.

This complication is particularly significant because it often serves as one of the first indicators of cystic fibrosis in newborns. Early recognition and management are crucial in preventing further complications such as intestinal perforation or significant dehydration.

In contrast, the other options do not have a direct association with cystic fibrosis: preterm labor is more related to maternal health factors, neural tube defects are typically due to genetic and environmental causes unrelated to cystic fibrosis, and congenital heart disease is a separate class of anomalies not inherently linked to cystic fibrosis.