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Preterm Births: A Silent Crisis Impacts Millions of Babies Worldwide

 


Lack of Progress and Devastating Factors Amplify Preterm Birth Complications

An estimated 13.4 million babies were born prematurely in 2020, and almost one million of them lost their lives due to complications related to preterm birth, as highlighted in the report titled "Born too soon: Decade of action on preterm birth." This comprehensive report, produced by organizations such as UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), sheds light on the urgency of addressing the long-underestimated magnitude and severity of this issue.

Stagnant Progress and Emerging Challenges PMNCH Executive Director, Helga Fogstad, expressed concern that progress in maternal and newborn health, as well as the prevention of stillbirths, has reached a plateau. She further emphasized that the combination of factors like COVID-19, climate change, ongoing conflicts, and escalating living costs is exacerbating the situation. Fogstad called for collaborative efforts among governments, donors, the private sector, civil society, parents, and healthcare professionals to address this silent emergency. She stressed the need to prioritize preterm prevention and care within national health and development agendas, supporting families, societies, and economies worldwide.

Persistently High Preterm Birth Rates The report reveals that preterm birth rates have not shown improvement in any region over the past decade, with a staggering 152 million babies born prematurely between 2010 and 2020. Preterm births occur before 37 weeks of the expected 40-week full-term pregnancy. WHO and UNICEF, in collaboration with the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, have provided updated estimates on the prevalence of preterm births.

The Leading Cause of Child Deaths Steven Lauwerier, Director of Health at UNICEF, underscored the devastating consequences of preterm deaths, leaving behind a trail of loss and heartbreak. Despite global advancements, no progress has been made in reducing the number of babies born too soon or averting the risks associated with their survival. Preterm birth is now the leading cause of child deaths, responsible for over one-fifth of all deaths before a child reaches their fifth birthday. Survivors of preterm birth often face lifelong health challenges, including a higher likelihood of disabilities and developmental delays.

Inequities in Survival Rates The report emphasizes the critical role of birth location in determining the chances of survival for preterm babies. Shockingly, only 1 in 10 extremely preterm babies survive in low-income countries, while more than nine in 10 survive in high-income nations.

Addressing the Crisis The report serves as a wake-up call to prioritize preterm birth prevention and comprehensive care for mothers and infants. It highlights the need for increased access to quality healthcare for pregnant women and preterm infants, ensuring every child has the opportunity for a healthy start in life. It is imperative to take immediate action to reverse this silent crisis and safeguard the well-being of millions of vulnerable babies worldwide

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