World Prematurity Day: 5 shocking facts about premature babies

When a baby is born way before the due date which is before 37 weeks of pregnancy is called premature birth. Premature babies face a lot of complications and need intensive care post birth and these c

By: Shaloo Tiwari | | Updated: November 17, 2017 5:59 pm

Premature birth: Due to lack of complete development, premature babies are at the higher risk of developing anxiety disorders and also ADHD [5]. However, researchers say that the risk of your premature baby developing ADHD in his childhood or even adulthood is very low. Only eight out of 84 adults who were premature babies were diagnosed with ADHD.

When a baby is born way before the due date which is before 37 weeks of pregnancy is called premature birth. Premature babies face a lot of complications and need intensive care post birth and these complications majorly depend on the term of pregnancy. The gravest dangers of premature babies could be Infant mortality or death within the first year. Preterm birth is the leading cause of death amongst kids under the age of 5 all around the world. For greater awareness on pre-mature babies on World Prematurity Day, here are a few shocking facts that you should know: (Read: Here’s why its essential to breastfeed premature babies )

1. According to a study, premature babies, who undergo breathing treatments to improve lung function early in life, may have to face respiratory ailment even as adolescents. [1]

2. Another study says that premature babies are at more risk of osteoporosis. Scientists from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) found out that premature babies are at a greater risk of developing brittle bones.[2]

3. Pre-term babies or preemies are at a higher risk of developing anxiety disorders and other mental health issues even into their late 30s, says a study.[3]

4. Necrotizing Enterocolitis- A critical intestinal condition that is usually fatal is common in premature babies. [4]

5. A caring method for preemies which is called the Kangaroo mother care has been known have great effects on babies in later life. This method that involves keeping the tiny babies warm and nourished through breastfeeding and continuous skin-to-skin contact can work wonders.[5]

There many more shocking facts and few are really hard-wrenching. We must really start taking steps that can help reduce preterm births. According to the World Health Organisation, 75% of premature deaths could be avoided with cost-effective interventions and by making sure that women have better access to family planning and increased empowerment, better care before and after pregnancy.

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Published: November 17, 2017 5:19 pm | Updated:November 17, 2017 5:59 pm

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