World Prematurity Day 2016

PARENTS AROUND THE WORLD RAISE AWARENESS OF PREMATURE BIRTH

November 17, 2016 – An estimated 15 million babies around the world are born prematurely each year and one million of them do not survive their early birth. Perfectly Preemie is joining organizations around the world to call attention to this global problem and what can be done to prevent it.

On this, "World Prematurity Day" – prominent buildings and landmarks in many countries will be lit in purple to honor babies born too soon. Organizations will offer professional education programs, as well as family events and gatherings. Last year, prematurity awareness activities took place in 100 countries.

Individuals and families can help raise awareness, too. People are encouraged to share a “virtual hug” with friends through Facebook or Twitter to show that they care about the premature babies. World-renowned baby photographer Anne Geddes filmed her own virtual hug in support of World Prematurity Day. It is awesome - don't miss it!

Messages from other internationally recognized celebrities, including Celine Dion and Thalia are below. 

Experts say simple improvements in infant care could help many premature babies survive. Born Too Soon: The Global Action Report on Preterm Birth, published by the March of Dimes, the World Health Organization, the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health, and Save the Children in 2012, estimates that up to 75 percent of infant deaths caused by prematurity could be prevented by wider use of antenatal steroids and more frequent practice of Kangaroo Mother Care.

In the United States, premature birth rates have reached a 17-year low. However, the United States still has one of the highest rate of premature birth of any high-income country.