Why are newborns at greater risk of hypothermia?

Newborns are at greater risk of hypothermia primarily because they have a higher surface area to body weight ratio. This means that, relative to their mass, they have a larger area through which heat can be lost. Neonates possess a thin layer of subcutaneous fat, which provides less insulation compared to adults. As a result, their ability to retain body heat is compromised, making them more vulnerable to environmental temperature changes.

Additionally, the immature thermoregulatory system in newborns does not respond as efficiently to maintain core body temperature, further increasing their risk for hypothermia. Therefore, the combination of a high surface area to weight ratio and an underdeveloped thermoregulatory mechanism means that newborns can lose heat quickly, highlighting the importance of maintaining a warm environment for them.