premature births

As per the findings of the latest study, a simple blood test of pregnant women, done in between the third to fifth month, is 80 percent more accurate in estimating if the baby will be born prematurely or on time.

Dr. Steven Graves from the Brigham Young University (BYU) and Dr. Sean Esplin from the University of Utah jointly conducted the present study that aims to help doctors in getting rid of complications in pregnancies and making sure that the baby is delivered safely.

The study is also aimed at finding a solution for lowering the number of preterm deaths in babies.

Researchers from College of Public Health, University of South Florida (USF), U.S., found that father’s presence and involvement during pregnancy may help reduce the risk of child’s death during the first year of life.

The Times of India quoted lead study author Amina Alio, research assistant professor of community and family health, USF as saying, “Our study suggests that lack of paternal involvement during pregnancy is an important and potentially modifiable risk factor for infant mortality.”

Research details

The research conducted at the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD) found that a preterm baby has 120 times higher risk of death than babies born full term after 37 weeks of conception.

Dr. Roberto Romero of NICHD said, “Preterm birth costs the United States $26 billion per year. It is one of the most serious and significant challenges to medicine and society and one whose importance is not fully recognized.”