World Prematurity Day

World Prematurity Day Quick Facts - GB

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2023 Date	17 November 2023
2024 Date	17 November 2024

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World Prematurity Day in

Friday, 17 Nov

Days to go:

World Prematurity Day is an annual observance designed to raise awareness about the challenges and experiences faced by premature infants and their families. Premature birth, defined as being born before the 37th week of pregnancy, is a critical issue that affects one in ten babies worldwide. This global event unites various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, researchers, parents, and policymakers, to collaboratively address the causes, effects, and solutions to premature births in order to reduce the number of premature babies and improve their prognosis.

The first World Prematurity Day took place on November 17, 2011, since then, it has been observed annually in the United Kingdom, which has one of the highest rates of premature births in Europe. In the UK, approximately 60,000 babies are born prematurely each year, resulting in numerous health complications and substantial economic burdens on both families and the healthcare system. Consequently, World Prematurity Day in the UK focuses on raising awareness on key issues such as the importance of antenatal care, advancements in neonatal care, and the long-term developmental and health challenges associated with prematurity.

In the United Kingdom, World Prematurity Day is observed through various events, campaigns, and initiatives aimed at raising awareness and support for the cause. Events include educational conferences, fundraising efforts, social media campaigns, and public events where purple (the official colour of the observance) is prominently displayed to symbolise the event. Just as in other participating countries, World Prematurity Day in the UK occurs on the 17th of November each year, highlighting the importance of ongoing research, collaboration, and support to address the challenges faced by premature infants and their families.

World Prematurity Day facts

Around the world, 1 in 10 babies are born premature every year according to the World Health Organization.
According to the WHO, Preterm birth complications are the leading cause of death among children under 5 worldwide.
Premature births can occur for a variety of reasons. They can be caused by multiple pregnancies, advanced maternal age, infections and conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, or genetic influence. Some can occur spontaneously and for unknown reasons.
One of the most significant medical advancements for premature infants worldwide was the discovery of surfactant therapy in the 1980s, which was determined to significantly improve the condition of babies born with immature lungs. The first clinical trials of surfactant therapy were conducted at University College Hospital, London, in the United Kingdom.
Approximately 60,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the UK, making it the leading cause of death and disability among newborns in the country.

Top things to do in the UK for World Prematurity Day

Raise awareness on social media by using the tags #PrematurityAwarenessMonth and #WorldPrematurityDay on your social media
Learn more about prematurity at World Prematurity Day Factsheet.
Purple is the recognized color for World Prematurity Day. Decorate your home or create a purple-themed display to show support. This could include purple balloons, ribbons, or banners with messages of hope and support.
Take this opportunity to learn more about premature birth and its impact on babies and families. Read articles, books, or research papers on the subject. Many organizations provide resources and information about premature birth, its causes, and ways to prevent it.