America Gets a “D” on Preterm Births

Today is Prematurity Awareness Day, and the March of Dimes just released their Premature Birth Report Card. (The entire month of November is also Prematurity Awareness Month.)

Once again this year, the US has barely passed the test. However, seven states did improve their performance over last year. Some strides that were made include: 33 states and DC reduced the percentage of women of childbearing age who smoke, while 21 states and DC reduced the percentage of uninsured women of childbearing age.

Despite the improvements, the overall grade for the US remained a “D” for the second consecutive year. No state earned an “A,” and only Vermont received a “B.” The March of Dimes assigned grades by comparing preterm birth rates to the national Healthy People 2010 preterm birth objective: 7.6% of all live births. To learn more about how well each state did, visit the March of Dimes interactive map.

How bad is it?

More than 540,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the US. Sadly, premature birth is the leading cause of newborn deaths. And premature infants who survive are often challenged with breathing problems, cerebral palsy, mental retardation and other health problems. Worldwide, more than one million premature babies die each year.

What can be done?

Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, President of the March of Dimes, says that some interventions can help prevent preterm birth. They include smoking cessation programs and health care before and during pregnancy, as well as progesterone supplementation. Women who plan to become pregnant can learn more about preventing preterm birth at the March of Dimes, including 9 Questions to Help You Get Your 9 Months.

(Image credit: March of Dimes)