From the Research
Preterm labor is a significant global health challenge, affecting approximately 15 million babies annually worldwide, which translates to about 11% of all births, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting that the burden is particularly severe in low and middle-income countries, where nearly 85% of preterm births occur 1. The burden of preterm labor is particularly high in India, with a preterm birth rate ranging from 10-15% of all deliveries, resulting in approximately 3.5 million preterm births annually, making India the country with the highest absolute number of preterm births globally. Some key points to consider include:
- The consequences of preterm labor are profound, as it is the leading cause of neonatal mortality worldwide and contributes significantly to long-term neurodevelopmental disabilities, respiratory complications, and other health issues 2.
- The economic burden is also substantial, encompassing immediate healthcare costs for neonatal intensive care and long-term expenses related to ongoing medical care, educational support, and lost productivity.
- Risk factors in India include maternal malnutrition, inadequate prenatal care, maternal infections, adolescent pregnancies, and limited access to healthcare facilities, particularly in rural areas 3.
- Prevention strategies should focus on improving antenatal care coverage, maternal nutrition, treating infections promptly, and implementing effective tocolytic therapies when appropriate, with a recent study suggesting that preeclampsia is strongly associated with recurrence of preterm births 3.
- The most effective approach to reducing the burden of preterm labor is to address the underlying causes, including maternal hypertensive disorders and placental disorders, especially maternal and fetal vascular malperfusion and placental abruption, which substantially contribute to preterm neonatal deaths 1. Some potential strategies for prevention and management of preterm labor include:
- Improving antenatal care coverage and maternal nutrition
- Treating infections promptly and effectively
- Implementing effective tocolytic therapies when appropriate
- Addressing underlying causes of preterm labor, such as maternal hypertensive disorders and placental disorders.