Premature birth is a complex disorder with no single cause, requiring a multi-faceted approach. Research in six promising areas may lead to new clinical strategies for identifying high-risk patients and preventing premature birth.
A new study finds that adequate daily folic acid intake before pregnancy can reduce neural tube defects (NTDs) by up to 70%. The March of Dimes advocates for increased folic acid fortification in grain foods, particularly among Hispanic populations.
Researchers discovered that hyaluronic acid inhibits oligodendrocyte progenitor maturation, leading to brain damage. The findings offer clues on reversing some forms of brain damage and improving lives of thousands of infants.
A recent study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology found that babies born at night have a 12-16% increase in neonatal mortality, accounting for almost 10% of all neonatal deaths in California. This increased risk is attributed to various factors, including potential complications during delivery and reduced access to healthcare services.
Despite progress, most US babies are not fully covered under newborn screening programs. Currently, 23 states screen for over 20 disorders, while others have limited or no testing.
Gene targeting allows researchers to design and produce knockout lab mice to study human disease, revolutionizing biomedical research and advancing genetic medicine. The award recognizes the breakthrough technology developed by Capecchi and Smithies, enabling scientists to address complex biological problems.
The March of Dimes estimates that nearly half of hospital charges for preemies are billed to employers, totaling $7.4 billion annually. Premature birth also causes lost productivity, with mothers averaging 29.1 days away from work and employees losing up to $2,766 per delivery.
A study published in American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology reveals that metabolic profiling can accurately identify patients at risk for preterm delivery. The method has shown a high degree of accuracy in identifying patients across different clinical groups, offering new hope for predicting the course of preterm labor.
Researchers estimate that progesterone therapy could reduce the rate of recurrent preterm birth in the US by about 2%, preventing around 10,000 premature births annually. The study's findings are based on a clinical trial showing a significant reduction in preterm birth risk among women with a history of spontaneous preterm birth.
A new British study found that 41 percent of extremely premature babies have severe or moderate mental impairment at six years old. Only 20 percent have no neuromotor or mental disability. The March of Dimes emphasizes the importance of preventing prematurity, with a focus on research, education, and support for families.
The March of Dimes survey found that 49 percent of women who have been on low-carb diets in the past six months take a daily multivitamin containing folic acid. This increase suggests that women are becoming more aware of the importance of folic acid for preventing birth defects.
A new study has identified a gene variant linked to cleft lip and palate, with implications for genetic counseling and treatment options. The discovery brings us closer to understanding the multiple genetic factors underlying these serious birth defects.
Dr. Lyon's 1961 discovery of X-chromosome inactivation explained the inheritance pattern of X-linked disorders such as hemophilia and fragile X syndrome. The study of X-inactivation continues to excite researchers today, with a focus on understanding the process.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released new guidelines on using progesterone to prevent preterm birth. Preliminary results show promise in reducing the risk of preterm birth by one-third and half. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness.
A study by March of Dimes found that funded junior scientists were more likely to publish and contribute to scientific discoveries. The organization's grant program successfully invested in talented researchers who went on to make significant contributions.
Researchers Ronald M. Evans and Pierre Chambon received the prize for their discovery of nuclear hormone receptors and its impact on human physiology and disease prevention. The award highlights the significance of their work in developing new treatments for cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.
A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that predicting preterm birth remains challenging due to low predictive value of current tests such as ultrasound and fetal fibronectin. The study suggests that prematurity in America is on the rise, with a 23% increase in premature births since the 1980s.
Research by the March of Dimes has found that premature and low birthweight babies experience long-term learning difficulties in school. The organization's Perinatal Epidemiological Research Initiative aims to identify factors contributing to preterm births to prevent these problems.
A recent study found that pregnant women who smoke are more likely to have a premature or low birthweight baby if two specific genes related to chemical modification of cigarette smoke are inactive. The research, funded by the March of Dimes, identified these genetic variations as risk factors for low birthweight and prematurity.
A new study reveals nearly 12 million American women aged 15-44 are uninsured, with ethnic minorities facing greater gaps in coverage. State disparities also exist, with some states having up to 30% of women without insurance.
A recent study published in JAMA found that babies born as little as one week prematurely are at increased risk of dying, especially from asphyxia and infection. Mild prematurity was defined as 34 through 36 completed weeks' gestation, while moderate prematurity was defined as 32 through 34 completed weeks' gestation.
The March of Dimes criticizes a newborn screening report that favors cost savings over infant health. The organization recommends universal access to core screening tests and prioritizing the early detection of rare diseases to improve child health outcomes.
A recent survey by the March of Dimes found that only 32% of women between 18-45 take a daily multivitamin containing folic acid, despite being aware of its benefits. This is concerning given the importance of folic acid in preventing serious birth defects of the brain and spine.