There were 2335 neonatal deaths in England and Wales in 2000 with diseases of the respiratory system accounting for one third of these (131 per 100,000 livebirths). However, diagnostic labels are not always specified; approximately 50% of neonatal respiratory deaths were classified as "other" conditions. Sixteen percent were from respiratory distress syndrome associated with prematurity while congenital anomalies, including diaphragmatic hernia, accounted for 14% of respiratory deaths.