Shedding Light on Preterm Birth
This World Prematurity Day, we aim to advocate for the families and infants struggling for survival each year. In this recent article, we talk about the origin and purpose of World Prematurity Day, the global challenges, the theme for this year, and ways for you to show support.
What is World Prematurity Day?
World Prematurity Day first began in 2008 and it was initiated by the European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) in partnership with European parent organizations to shed more light on the complexities of preterm birth. Today It is observed around the world on November 17th each year to raise awareness of the unique challenges faced by premature babies and their families.
Preterm birth is defined as when a baby is born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy is completed. This can be caused by genetics or a variety of complications that require an early induction of labor. But in order to determine the root causes of this global issue, more research is needed. As we raise awareness of this pressing issue, we also emphasize the need for more research to advance the scientific understanding and medical support for millions of babies who are born prematurely each year.
The Global Challenge of Premature Birth
Premature infants around the world face numerous challenges including underdeveloped organs and feeding problems. Many of them require extra medical support in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) where they receive respiratory support and nutrition. This can be a heartbreaking and overwhelming experience for parents who have to go through emotional stress and financial strains and need access to more support systems which include peer networks, counseling, and local resources.
For lactating mothers of preemies, breastfeeding can be both a challenge and a vital lifeline. Lactation consultants and support groups can be invaluable resources for mothers who are striving to strengthen the immune systems of these vulnerable infants through breastfeeding.
Access to Quality Care Everywhere!
Last year the theme was “Small actions, BIG IMPACT: Immediate skin-to-skin care for every baby everywhere.” This year we will be advocating for more equitable and accessible healthcare systems for premature infants around the world. The theme for 2024 is “Over 13 million babies are born too soon every year. Access to QUALITY CARE everywhere.”
According to the World Health Organization, the majority of preterm births occur in sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia. However, the leading cause of death among children under 5 years of age around the world is preterm birth and the complications that are associated with it. Also, An estimated 13.4 million babies are born too early in 2020. That is more than 1 in 10 babies (World Health Organization, 2023).
How Can You Show Support?
- Wear Purple: Purple is the official color for World Prematurity Day. By wearing purple you stand in solidarity with these families and show cultural awareness.
- Raise Awareness: By sparking a conversation on social media and sharing facts and stories of premature birth, you can raise awareness of the pressing issue. Remember to use the hashtag #worldprematurityday or #borntoosoon. Click here to view the social media toolkit and guidelines from the EFCNI.
- Make A Donation: By providing support to NICUs and organizations like the EFCNI, you can help to provide medical equipment, supplies, and assistance to families with preemies.
- Educate Expectant Parents: By providing more education to parents about neonatal care and the signs of preterm labor, we can prevent more premature births from occurring. Click here to view the WHO recommendations on antenatal care for a positive pregnancy experience.
Final Thoughts
This World Prematurity Day 2024, let us come together to show support and advocate for global change, while acknowledging the progress that has been made so far in neonatal care. Through our collective support, we can create a brighter future for babies around the world who are born too soon. We hope you found this article informative, please don’t forget to share. You may also be interested in a previous article on Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day.
Sources
World Health Organization. (2023 May 10). Preterm Birth. Retrieved November 16, 2024, from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/preterm-birth
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Preterm Birth. Retrieved November 16, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/maternal-infant-health/preterm-birth/
