World Prematurity Day 2024: Championing quality care for every preterm newborn

According to recent figures from the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 13 million babies are born preterm each year, accounting for more than 10% of all live births worldwide. 

With over one million of these babies succumbing to complications of prematurity, this year’s call for access to quality care comes at a critical time for newborn health. FIGO’s ongoing commitment underscores the importance of accessible high-quality care to support vulnerable newborns worldwide. 

FIGO’s commitment to preterm newborn care 

FIGO emphasises the need for access to prenatal care, appropriate medical resources and family support programmes that can ease the burdens of premature births. 

“Every year, over 13 million babies arrive early, reminding us of our responsibility as healthcare providers to champion accessible, quality care for every mother and newborn, everywhere. Let us commit to ensuring that no matter where a premature baby is born, they receive the best start possible – a chance for health, strength and a future.” 

—Dr Catalina Valencia González, Committee chair on Preterm Birth 

Hear from Dr Catalina Valencia González on the key priorities of the 2023-2025 committee on Preterm Birth:

Five life-saving interventions for preterm care: The PremPrep-5 Initiative 

In its ongoing efforts, FIGO has outlined five essential, evidence-based interventions through its PremPrep-5 initiative. These interventions are affordable, accessible and effective in improving survival rates for preterm infants, even in low-resource settings: 

• Two of the five proposed interventions-antenatal corticosteroids and magnesium sulphate – rely on access to inexpensive, heat-stable medications that can be administered intramuscularly. 
• The remaining three interventions – delayed cord clamping, breast milk and kangaroo care – can be implemented with minimal resources, without the need for drugs or additional medical equipment. 

When used together, these simple yet effective interventions can substantially reduce the risks associated with premature birth, making it possible to adapt high-quality care for preterm infants around the world. 

Read more about the FIGO PremPrep-5 initiative. 

A call to action: Collaboration for quality care 

This World Prematurity Day, FIGO calls on healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to champion better care for preterm infants. By advancing capacity building, advocacy, education, and research implementation, we can help mitigate the challenges of premature birth and give every baby a stronger start in life. 

FInd out more about the work of FIGO’s Committee on Preterm Birth.