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Global burden of preterm birth

Salimah R Walani1

  • 1Global Programs Department, March of Dimes, Arlington, VA, USA.

International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics: the Official Organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics
|June 12, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Preterm birth, occurring before 37 weeks, affects 11% of births globally and is the leading cause of under-5 mortality. Addressing this critical issue is vital for global child survival goals.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal Health
  • Global Public Health
  • Obstetrics

Background:

  • Preterm birth, defined as birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation, affects approximately 15 million newborns annually worldwide.
  • It represents a significant global health challenge, contributing to 18% of all deaths in children under five and 35% of neonatal deaths.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the global burden and impact of preterm birth.
  • To underscore its significance in relation to global health objectives, specifically UN Sustainable Development Goal 3.

Main Methods:

  • This study is a review of global preterm birth statistics and mortality data.
  • Analysis of existing data on preterm birth rates and associated mortality across different income levels and geographical regions.

Main Results:

  • The global preterm birth rate stands at approximately 11%, with significant regional disparities.
  • Low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Southeast Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, bear a disproportionately high burden.
  • Preterm birth rates are increasing in many parts of the world.

Conclusions:

  • Preterm birth is a critical determinant of child mortality globally.
  • Urgent interventions are needed to reduce preterm birth rates and improve neonatal outcomes, especially in high-burden regions.
  • Addressing preterm birth is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.2.

Keywords:
Preterm birthPreterm birth disparitiesPreterm birth mortalityPreterm birth prevalence

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