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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
14:43

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting

Published on: January 12, 2018

Preterm births - United States, 2007

Joyce A Martin1,

  • 1Division of Vital Statistics, National Center for Health Statistics, CDC, Hyattsville, MD 20782, USA. jcm9@cdc.gov

MMWR Supplements
|March 25, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Preterm birth rates in the U.S. have significantly increased, posing risks for infant survival and long-term disabilities. This trend highlights critical public health concerns for premature infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal health
  • Public health
  • Perinatology

Background:

  • Infants born before 37 weeks gestation face higher mortality and disability risks.
  • The U.S. preterm birth rate saw a concerning rise of over 30% between 1981 and 2006.
  • Despite a slight decrease in 2007-2008, the rate remains elevated compared to previous decades.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze trends in U.S. preterm birth rates.
  • To highlight the associated risks of preterm birth for infant survival and long-term health outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of national birth data from 1981 to 2008.
  • Statistical examination of preterm birth rates across different years.

Main Results:

  • The U.S. preterm birth rate increased from 9.4% to 12.8% between 1981 and 2006.
  • The preterm birth rate in 2007-2008, while lower than the 2006 peak, exceeded all rates from 1981-2002.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm birth remains a significant public health challenge in the U.S.
  • The increasing trend underscores the need for interventions to improve neonatal outcomes and reduce long-term disabilities.

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