Articles tagged with Premature Birth
The national preterm birth rate fell to 11.4% in 2013, beating the federal Healthy People 2020 goal seven years ahead of schedule. Despite this progress, the US still ranks among high resource countries with one of the highest preterm birth rates.
The March of Dimes aims to reduce US preterm birth rates to 5.5% by 2030 through evidence-based interventions such as eliminating early elective deliveries and optimizing birth spacing. The organization is also funding research to discover unknown causes of premature birth and identify new interventions.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London discovered that stretching the amniotic membrane leads to the overproduction of prostaglandin E2, damaging tissue and reducing its mechanical properties. This overproduction activates a protein called connexin 43, potentially leading to rupture and pre-term birth.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center are investigating the role of genetic variations, infection, inflammation, fetal lung development, and cervical ripening in triggering preterm labor. The study aims to identify women at risk of preterm labor and develop new treatments to prevent it.
A surveillance study found that pregnancy is associated with a greater risk of Haemophilus influenzae infection, which can cause serious complications such as premature birth, stillbirth, and fetal loss. The study also suggests that pregnant women are at higher risk of developing unencapsulated H influenzae disease.
Researchers seeking to understand the causes of premature birth aim to identify women at risk and develop new treatments. Genetic variations, infection, fetal lung development, and cervical changes are being investigated as potential triggers for preterm labor.
The US preterm birth rate has dropped to its lowest level in 15 years, but the country still earns a 'C' grade. Since 2006, about 176,000 fewer babies have been born too soon, potentially saving $9 billion in health and societal costs.
Researchers found that women infected with chlamydia or gonorrhoea before pregnancy had a heightened risk of stillbirth and premature birth. Despite controlling for other factors, the study suggests that these infections may be an important predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes.
Researchers are studying the evolution and biology of human pregnancy, genetic factors contributing to preterm birth, and racial disparities in preterm birth rates. The study aims to identify potential targets for further research and address environmental factors such as drinking or smoking.
Researchers used MRI to identify disrupted brain processes in premature infants, showing a link between preterm birth and impaired cognitive function. The study found that cortical development was reduced in premature infants, with the greatest effect in the most premature babies.
The US preterm birth rate dropped for the fifth consecutive year in 2011 to 11.7 percent, giving thousands more babies a healthy start in life and saving billions in health and social costs. Four states earned an 'A' on the March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card, while the US earned a 'C', despite progress.
The US has the highest preterm birth rate among 130 countries, with 12.0 preterm births per 100 live births. Nearly half a million babies are born too soon in the US each year, resulting in significant human and economic costs.
New research challenges conventional wisdom on C-sections for preterm babies, finding they may contribute to breathing problems. Small for gestational age babies delivered by c-section before 34 weeks had a 30 percent higher odds of developing respiratory distress syndrome than those born vaginally.
A QUT study found a link between temperature increases and the incidence of stillbirth and shorter pregnancies. The study, which recorded 101,870 births over four years, estimated that increased temperatures increase the risk of stillbirth by 15°C, with the lowest risks seen in the coolest weeks.
Research suggests children born moderately preterm (32-35 weeks) have higher scores on behavioral and emotional problem measures at preschool age. This includes increased levels of anxiety/depression, aggression, attention disorders, and somatic complaints.
A Californian-based study found traffic-related air pollution, particularly PAH, is linked to a 30% increase in premature births. Seasonal changes and proximity to the coast also affect pollutant concentrations.
A new study found that moderately premature babies have reduced lung function at 8-9 years old, which can cause breathing difficulties. However, these issues may improve as the child grows older, according to a research presented at the European Respiratory Society Annual Congress.
Researchers found drinking during early pregnancy increased risk of premature birth and low birth weight, while heavy drinkers were more likely to have unplanned pregnancies and very premature births. The study emphasized the need for improved detection of alcohol misuse in pregnancy.
Research led by Dr. Errol Norwitz found that progesterone prevents preterm labor by hindering apoptosis in fetal membranes, resulting in stronger and thicker fetal membranes. This study contributes to the understanding of what triggers labor and the role of progesterone in preventing premature birth.
The US saw a two-year decline in preterm birth rates, primarily among babies born just weeks early, while many states improved in at least one contributing factor. The overall national rate remains high compared to top-scoring countries.
The March of Dimes has awarded $2.6 million to six scientists studying the causes of preterm birth, with a focus on predicting and preventing premature labor. The funding aims to improve baby health by understanding genetics, environment, and vitamin D's role in preventing preterm birth.
Researchers from Loyola University Health System found a link between premature births and cerebral palsy, with inflammation of the umbilical cord being a common complication. The study suggests that managing inflammation may reduce the risk of certain complications in these infants.
Research reveals genetic variants increasing risk of preterm labor, but also necessary for fighting infection; identifying high-risk individuals may lead to personalized care and healthier outcomes.
Researchers discovered DNA variants in genes involved in fighting infection that increase the risk of preterm labor and birth. These variants, carried by both mothers and fetuses, can lead to an inflammatory response that triggers early childbirth.
A study by Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals that the loss of a 'guardian angel' gene leads to premature birth due to altered signaling pathways in the pregnant uterus. The findings could lead to new strategies for treating and preventing prematurity.
The US received a 'D' grade on the March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card, with over half a million newborns not receiving a healthy start. Seven states improved their preterm birth rates by reducing smoking, uninsured rates, and late preterm births.
A 25-year study found premature births increased by nearly 10 times, yet survival rates more than halved, with a 10% reduction in stillbirths associated with pre-term births. Researchers attribute the findings to better understanding and medically induced early births.
A new study found that women who deliver prematurely have higher levels of phthalates in their urine compared to those who carry to term. The researchers analyzed data from Mexican women and discovered a significant association between phthalate exposure and premature birth.
Researchers found pre-pregnancy depressive mood may be a risk factor for premature birth among both blacks and whites, but the study did not establish cause and effect. Black women have nearly twice the odds of having a preterm birth compared to white women, potentially due to declining health over time.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that a treatment intended to prevent premature births in single pregnancies may be ineffective in women expecting twins. Researchers discovered an underlying difference between premature births in women with single and multiple pregnancies, which could inform improvements in treatment.
A study published in PLOS Medicine found that women who take folic acid supplements for at least one year before becoming pregnant are less likely to have premature babies. The research suggests a significant reduction in very early and early preterm deliveries, with a 70% decrease in the most high-risk category.
Taking folic acid supplements for at least a year before conception reduces the risk of premature birth by 70% and 50%, according to a large cohort study. The findings suggest that folic acid supplementation may be an effective prevention method for premature birth.
The US received an overall 'D' grade on the first Premature Birth Report Card, with 18 states and Puerto Rico receiving failing grades. The report highlights contributing factors and prevention opportunities, including smoking and uninsured women of childbearing age.
The March of Dimes has launched a national petition to reduce the rate of premature birth, which affects over 530,000 babies each year. The four-point petition calls for hospitals to review cesarean-section births and inductions before 39 weeks gestation to prevent early deliveries.
A new computer program may reveal a way to predict premature birth with greater accuracy. The system, developed by Australian researchers and a pathology company, analyzes hormone levels to identify high-risk pregnancies.
The March of Dimes has awarded $3.5 million to scientists studying the role of genes and heredity in premature births. The organization aims to understand the causes of preterm birth, which affects over half a million babies annually.
A large-scale study published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found a strong link between physical abuse during pregnancy and premature births. Researchers surveyed 2660 Caucasian women and discovered that 24% of mothers of preterm newborns had experienced physical abuse, compared to 8% of those with term births.
A new study suggests that taking folic acid supplements for at least one year before pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of premature birth. The research found a 50-70% decrease in early preterm deliveries, with the greatest reduction seen in very early premature births.
A new study published in the Journal of Pediatrics reveals that babies born just a few weeks premature are at increased risk of death during their first week of life. The study found that late preterm infants face a six-fold higher mortality rate compared to full-term infants.
A team of researchers from the University of Reading has developed a powerful X-ray beam technique to study the structure of amniotic membranes and their rupture. The findings reveal that the loss of a molecular lattice-like arrangement governs the timing of membrane rupture, paving the way for therapies to prevent premature birth.
Research reveals that very low maternal cholesterol levels may increase the risk of premature birth and low birth weight, with no such link observed in African American women. Full-term babies born to mothers with low cholesterol also weighed less on average.
The March of Dimes has allocated $3 million to support eight scientists' research on predicting and preventing preterm birth. Five projects focus on immune responses, while others investigate the role of genetic factors, circadian rhythms, and potassium balance.
The March of Dimes and the Johnson & Johnson Pediatric Institute launched a three-year Prematurity Prevention Initiative in Kentucky to test bundling proven interventions and reduce preventable preterm births. The initiative aims to provide expectant mothers, families, and healthcare professionals with comprehensive support and education.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that preterm birth caused over one-third of infant deaths in the first year of life. The study used a new method to classify causes of infant death and found that premature birth was the leading cause, followed by birth defects.
A commercial progesterone therapy appears to prevent some premature births, with a 33% reduction in preterm birth rate for women who had a previous premature baby. The March of Dimes estimates that if all eligible women received the therapy, nearly 10,000 premature births might have been prevented.
Two genetic markers, one associated with African American babies and the other with women with chronic hypertension, have been identified as potential predictors of preterm birth. The findings could lead to improved diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of preterm birth, reducing its risks for lifelong health complications.
The March of Dimes calls for passage of federal PREEMIE Bill to address prematurity, with severe health consequences and significant economic burden estimated at over $26.2 billion annually. The organization supports increased research investment and public awareness campaigns to prevent premature birth.
A population-based study found that children with lower birthweights and shorter gestational ages are more likely to be placed on the child protection register. The association held true even after adjusting for levels of deprivation and age of the mother at birth.
The March of Dimes has awarded $2.4 million in grants to six innovative scientists working on new ways to identify women at increased risk for premature birth and understand the role of inflammation and progesterone in triggering labor. The goal is to prevent premature births, which are the leading cause of newborn death in the US.
The five-site network will identify genetic and environmental determinants of premature birth, utilizing advanced genomic technologies and statistical methods. The study's goal is to gain a deeper understanding of preterm births, a leading cause of infant mortality.
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 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.
A cancer drug has been found to control levels of a hormone receptor protein in the womb, which is linked with giving birth. The study, funded by Action Medical Research, aims to assess whether the drug can be used to prevent premature birth.
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.
A recent survey found that most people attribute premature births to individual mothers' behaviors rather than systemic issues. More research is needed to determine how to prevent premature births and address the root causes of this issue.
A new UCSF study reveals that Latina women with short interpregnancy intervals are at higher risk of premature birth compared to white women. The research highlights the importance of waiting 18 months or longer between pregnancies to ensure optimal baby health.