A new study by the World Health Organization and the March of Dimes released new findings this month revealing that 1 in 10 babies across the world are born prematurely each year. Preterm births (defined as birth before 37 weeks of gestation) account for more than one-quarter of the deaths that occur in the month after birth.
According to the Washington Post article on the study, “Global Study Examines Toll of Preterm Birth,” of the 4 million deaths that occur soon after birth each year, 28% are attributable to prematurity. Rates of preterm birth vary by region. Africa has the highest rate at 11.9%, North America comes next at 10.6%, and Asia follows with 9.1%. Malnutrition, illness, and inadequate prenatal care are recognized factors for prematurity in many underdeveloped countries.

Even with such high numbers, the figures in the report are conservative. Some of the information provided reflects only women pregnant with one baby, while women carrying multiples have a greater risk of delivering early.

Although the report did not present solutions for reducing preterm births, a more detailed study is expected in 2010.

Read the Washington Post article>>

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