World Prematurity Day

World Prematurity Day is marked on November 17th annually with the aim of increasing understanding of premature births and the issues faced by prematurely born babies and their families around the globe. Approximately 15 million babies are delivered prematurely every year, making up about one-tenth of all newborns worldwide.  Premature birth occurs when a baby is born too early, before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy. Babies born prematurely are at risk of severe complications that can be life-threatening and result in long-term health issues.