Introduction:
Premature birth is a very serious health problem and a leading cause of death among children younger than five years worldwide. Premature babies may have more health problems than babies born on time, and may experience long-term health problems that affect the brain, lungs, hearing or vision. World Prematurity Day is observed on 17 November each year to raise awareness of the challenges and burden of preterm birth globally.
Facts:
- Every year, an estimated 15 million infants are born preterm (before 37 completed weeks of gestation), and this number is increasing.
- Across 184 countries, the rate of preterm birth ranges from 5% to 18% of babies born.
- Premature babies need special care at a unit specialized in premature babies in the hospital.
- Premature birth and its complications are the leading cause of infant death worldwide.
- One in 10 babies is born too early worldwide
- Objectives:
- Raising awareness about premature birth and premature babies.
- Raising awareness about the importance of following-up pregnancy to avoid premature birth.
- Maintaining ideal weight during pregnancy.
- Educating pregnant women about keeping their blood glucose and blood pressure levels under control.
Official Date:
Globally: November 17th, 2021
Locally: Rabiʽ al-Thani 12th, 1443H
Theme:
References: