1 in 10 Babies Born Premature

October 5, 2009 by Cathy Ribble
Filed under: News

The first attempt to measure the number of worldwide premature births has produced startling results, but many experts feel the true numbers are much higher. Thirteen million babies worldwide are born premature. Stated another way, one in ten of the world’s babies is born prematurely. One million of those babies will die as a result of that prematurity.

The report released by the March of Dimes indicates the majority of the premature births occurs in Africa and Asia, but followed closely by North America. This initial report is a collaborative effort with the World Health Organization, and it is expected the numbers will only rise when the WHO completes a more in-depth study next year reflecting country-by-country numbers.

The following factors could increase the risk of premature birth:

Lack of proper prenatal care to be sure the expectant mother is getting proper nutrition and proper care for such conditions as diabetes, high blood pressure and infections;
Smoking and alcohol use;
Carrying twins or more; and
Elective inductions and cesarean sections in wealthy nations.

Premature births occur when the baby is born before the completion of the 37th week of pregnancy. These precious little lives often face a struggle with breathing problems, jaundice and developmental delays. According to the March of Dimes, a small number of births occur in the United States before 32 weeks. This group faces an even greater risk of developing complications which could result in death.

Although different factors seem to cause prematurity in wealthy countries and poor countries, a healthy outcome can often be achieved with early intervention, proper diet and treatment of underlying infections. No matter what the economic circumstances are, the premature baby can be nestled skin-to-skin against the mother’s or the father’s bare, warm chest. This life-saving practice, often called kangaroo care, can keep the infant’s body temperature stable. In poor countries, this can replace expensive medical incubators which are not available. In countries where medical equipment is available, kangaroo care is still practiced because it is so beneficial for the premature baby and the family.

Through the continued collective efforts of the worldwide community, new information will be gathered. New medical practices can be established. Expectant mothers and doctors will intervene when possible. Together, we can reduce all of these statistics!