This comprehensive research study from the journal Reproductive Health examines the global burden of preterm birth and provides critical insights for healthcare professionals and policymakers working to address this significant public health challenge.
The research reveals sobering statistics about preterm birth rates worldwide, showing no measurable change in global preterm birth rates in the past decade, in any region. An estimated 13.4 million newborns were preterm or “born too soon” in 2020, representing 9.9% of births worldwide. The study highlights that preterm birth complications remained the top cause of under-5 child mortality globally in 2022, accounting for about 1 million neonatal deaths, indicating little progress from figures a decade ago.
The research identifies significant global inequities in preterm birth outcomes. While 9 in 10 extremely preterm babies survive in high-income countries, fewer than 1 in 10 survive in low-income countries. The study emphasizes that effective care can prevent 900,000 deaths from complications of preterm birth, particularly among those born before 32 weeks’ gestation.
The authors propose three critical “pivots” to accelerate progress: improving data collection to count every baby (including stillbirths) with accurate gestational age recording; strengthening national data systems for better individual-level tracking and follow-up care; and using data to enhance accountability at all levels. The study stresses that most stillbirths occur preterm (an estimated 74.3%) and have profound impacts on families, making it essential to include stillbirth data in preterm birth prevention strategies.
This research provides evidence-based recommendations for healthcare organizations, policymakers, and advocates working to reduce preterm birth rates and improve outcomes for vulnerable newborns globally.
