Local Groups Raise Awareness on Premature Births

They’re joining in on a global movement where other cities across the world are lighting up landmarks or buildings in purple- which is the colour for World Prematurity Day.

“Meanwhile talking to The Express Tribune, Director Nutrition in the Ministry of National Health Services, Dr Baseer Khan Achakzai, said Pakistan is among top 10 countries with 16 per cent premature babies which is alarming”. And complications from premature births is the number one killer of young children. Based on recent statistics, one in 12 Canadian babies is born prematurely.

“In Pakistan majority of adolescent mothers give birth to premature babies mainly because they are unaware of nutritional needs during pregnancy, importance of antenatal checkups and quality care required during delivery of a premature baby” she said. Without appropriate treatment, those who survive often face lifelong disabilities, including learning, visual and hearing problems, and their quality of life is greatly affected.

“Even today many pregnant women are not aware of potential risk factors and/or how to prevent a premature birth”, the Association stresses. Through World Prematurity Day and other joint efforts, members call for action to prevent preterm birth and improve care for babies born too soon.

“We can save many more babies with effective interventions”.

WHO said it is committed to reducing the health problems and lives lost as a result of preterm birth.