2. Prematurity
• Prematurity defined
• gestation of >20 weeks &< 37 weeks
• In 2005, 1 in 8 children born before 37 weeks
• Cultural Significance
18.4% of non-Hispanic black
14.2 of American Indian/Alaska Native
12.2% of Hispanics
11.7% non-Hispanic white
3. Prematurity
2002 study
Preterm birth primary cause of death
Congenital anomalies secondary cause of death
March of Dimes 2009 U.S. report card
Global issues
4 million infants die each year within first 4 weeks of life
1.1 million of those because of prematurity
4. High Risk Groups
Previous history of preterm birth
Younger than 17, older than 35
Domestic violence
Non-Hispanic black
Substance abuse
Multiple sexual partners
Diabetes
Hypertension
Clotting disorders
5. Screening & Tools
Must start before pregnancy
Good prenatal vitamins
National Health & Nutrition Exam Survey findings
Neural tube defects decreased 25%-30% after folic acid
mandate
Balanced diet with adequate protein
6. Screening & Tools
Physical exam
Hypertension
Diabetes
Sexually transmitted infections
Genetic counseling based on family history
Lifestyle education
Alcohol/Drugs
Smoking
Vaccinations current
Care of pets/pet feces
7. Birth Defects
Affects 1 in 33 children
Most occur within first 3 months’ gestation
Neural tube defects, cleft palate
Some found during first year of life
Hearing loss, heart defect
Severity range: mild to severe
Center for Disease Control
#1 cause of infant mortality
More than 20% of total infant deaths
