The epidemiology, etiology, and costs of preterm birth

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Obstetrics
• Neonatology

Background:

• Preterm birth rates have historically risen but show recent declines.
• The USA still has higher preterm birth rates than other developed nations.
• Preterm birth prevention is crucial for reducing infant morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the ongoing challenge of preterm birth in the USA.
• To introduce innovative frameworks for classifying preterm birth by phenotype.
• To suggest that new classification approaches may lead to breakthroughs.

Main Methods:

• Review of recent trends in preterm birth rates.
• Discussion of challenges in studying preterm birth etiology.
• Introduction of novel phenotypical classification systems for preterm birth.

Main Results:

• Recent declines in preterm birth rates observed globally.
• Persistent high preterm birth rates in the USA compared to other developed countries.
• Emergence of phenotype-based classification systems for preterm birth.

Conclusions:

• Despite recent declines, preterm birth remains a significant public health concern.
• The complexity of preterm birth necessitates new research perspectives.
• Phenotype-based classification offers a promising avenue for future discoveries in preterm birth prevention.