Early birth rate increases

New government data confirm that the premature birth rate in the United States continues to rise, putting many newborns at risk of death and disability.

Nearly 543,000 children were born too early in 2006, according to the National Center for Health Statistics in the newly published report 'Birth: Final Data 2006', National Statistics Report, Vol. 57, No. 7. The national premature birth rate (birth before 37 weeks of gestation) increased by 12.8% in 2006 - an increase of about 36% since the beginning of 1980.

The report also focuses on the growing number of premature premature babies (born between 34 and 36 weeks gestation), about 25% since 1990. The report emphasizes that early childbirth rates rise. for women of Hispanic and Portuguese origin, while early childbearing rates do not change for other women. However, black women continue to have the highest preterm birth rate, 18.5%.

Preterm birth rates continue to increase despite the fact that multiple births, a risk of premature birth, have begun to stabilize. Twin birth rates remained unchanged in 2005 and 2006, and three or more births decreased by 5% in 2006.

High rates of early childbirth put many newborns at risk of death and disability. (Photo: environmentalhealthnews.org)

Jennifer L. Howse, president of March of Dimes, said: 'The health consequences for premature babies can be very harmful and we know that premature birth is a loss to the whole family. - emotionally and financially '.

Dr. Howse added: 'We are trying to promote community interest in early childbirth, and we know that there are effective measures to address this issue, including ensuring that everything is done. Both women of childbearing age have health insurance and expand national investment in research of causes as well as strategies to reduce birth rates to premature births. '

Preterm birth is the leading cause of death in the first month of life and causes about one-third of neonatal deaths. Children who survive premature births face the risk of long-term health problems, and late premature babies are even at risk of respiratory problems, jaundice, Irregular temperature, slow brain development, and risk of cerebral palsy as well as cognitive developmental delay.

Last month, the March of Dimes announced the first Early Birth Report Card, which gave the United States a 'D' - no one was rated 'A' - by comparing the early birth rate in 2005 and the National health target in 2010 was 7.6%.