When is World Prematurity Day Celebrated?, Why Do We Celebrate World Prematurity Day?, Signs of Preterm Labour, Causes of Premature Birth

When is World Prematurity Day Celebrated?

World Prematurity Day is celebrated on 17th November every year.

Why Do We Celebrate World Prematurity Day?

The day is observed to:

• Raise awareness about preterm birth

• Support families who have premature babies

• Appreciate and honor NICU doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers

• Promote better prenatal and neonatal care

• Educate the public about preventing preterm birth

Every year, more than 15 million babies are born prematurely worldwide.
It is one of the leading causes of newborn deaths, but most complications are preventable with proper care.

Theme of World Prematurity Day 2024

Why Do We Celebrate World Prematurity Day

“Small Actions, Big Impact – Immediate Skin-to-Skin Care for Every Baby Everywhere.”

Skin-to-skin contact (Kangaroo Mother Care) helps premature babies by:

• Improving breathing and heartbeat

• Increasing bonding with parents

• Maintaining body temperature

• Reducing infections

• Improving breastfeeding and weight gain

Causes of Premature Birth

Some common causes include:

• High blood pressure during pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Infections

• Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets)

• Smoking, alcohol, or poor nutrition

• Physical stress, long working hours

• Previous history of preterm birth

• Unknown reasons (in many cases)

Signs of Preterm Labour

• Regular contractions

• Lower abdominal pressure

• Back pain

• Vaginal bleeding

• Water breaking early

Women experiencing these symptoms should immediately visit a hospital.

How to Reduce the Risk of Premature Birth

• Regular antenatal checkups

• Good nutrition during pregnancy

• Avoid smoking and alcohol

• Managing medical conditions (BP, diabetes)

• Reducing stress

• Adequate rest

• Taking pregnancy supplements as advised

How Premature Babies Are Treated

Preterm babies often require:

• NICU admission

• Incubator care

• Respiratory support (CPAP, ventilator)

• Feeding through tube

• Infection control

• Monitoring oxygen, temperature, and heart rate

With advanced neonatal care, survival rates of even extremely preterm babies are improving.

Additional Info (Useful for Readers)

1. Color of the Day

The official color of World Prematurity Day is Purple, symbolizing sensitivity and compassion.

2. World Statistics

• 1 in every 10 babies is born premature

• Prematurity is a leading cause of death among children under 5

• Most preterm births occur in Asia and Africa

3. Support for Parents

Having a premature baby can be emotionally challenging.
Supporting parents through counseling, education, and emotional care is extremely important.

4. Role of Radiology

Radiology helps in:

• Diagnosing complications in premature babies

• Monitoring lung development

• Detecting infections, brain injuries, bowel issues (NEC)

• Providing vital information for NICU treatment

This is an important awareness area that many parents don’t know.

Conclusion

World Prematurity Day reminds us that every small life matters, no matter how early they arrive.
By spreading awareness, supporting families, and improving neonatal care, we can give premature babies a better chance at a healthy future.