World Prematurity Day - November 17, 2024
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Every year on November 17, we come together to recognize World Prematurity Day, a time to raise awareness about the challenges preterm infants and their families face and celebrate their resilience.
In the United States, approximately 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely—before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These infants face an increased risk of health complications, developmental delays, and long-term challenges. Preterm birth is the leading cause of death for children under five, and its impact extends far beyond the neonatal period, affecting families emotionally, physically, and financially. This year, the March of Dimes Report Card gave the United States a D+ rating for maternal and infant health, underscoring the urgent need to address high rates of preterm birth and persistent racial and ethnic disparities. The report highlights how systemic inequities in health care disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic communities, with Black women experiencing preterm birth rates 50% higher than their white counterparts.
This World Prematurity Day, let’s continue to advocate for equitable health care access and help families with the resources they need to navigate the prematurity journey. Let’s also take the time to celebrate the advances in infant care and the unsung heroes—healthcare providers, caregivers, and community advocates—who tirelessly work to ensure every preemie has the best chance at life.
In the United States, approximately 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely—before 37 weeks of pregnancy. These infants face an increased risk of health complications, developmental delays, and long-term challenges. Preterm birth is the leading cause of death for children under five, and its impact extends far beyond the neonatal period, affecting families emotionally, physically, and financially. This year, the March of Dimes Report Card gave the United States a D+ rating for maternal and infant health, underscoring the urgent need to address high rates of preterm birth and persistent racial and ethnic disparities. The report highlights how systemic inequities in health care disproportionately affect Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic communities, with Black women experiencing preterm birth rates 50% higher than their white counterparts.
This World Prematurity Day, let’s continue to advocate for equitable health care access and help families with the resources they need to navigate the prematurity journey. Let’s also take the time to celebrate the advances in infant care and the unsung heroes—healthcare providers, caregivers, and community advocates—who tirelessly work to ensure every preemie has the best chance at life.