Prevention of preterm birth and perinatal risk reduction

A reduction in preterm births has been observed in Haguenau, eastern France, during a 12-year intervention study on prevention of preterm deliveries. Between 1971 and 1982 there was also an increase in the proportion of women who attended the prenatal clinic in the first trimester, and an increase in the mean number of visits in the first 6 months of pregnancy. These changes were observed in women of all educational levels. This investigation illustrates the use of time-trend studies in the field of health technology assessment.