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Preterm Birth & Stillbirth: The Challenge

Preterm birth is the leading cause of newborn deaths worldwide. Annually, an estimated 13 million babies are born too early. Babies born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy have increased risks for infections, cerebral palsy, and respiratory, vision, hearing, and developmental problems.

Additionally, a staggering 3.2 million stillbirths occur each year. These losses are not considered in most health policies or goals. The one million occuring during labor and childbirth can be prevented with current interventions. Most stillbirths occur in low- and middle-income countries, and nearly half are linked to maternal deaths.

In the United States, one in eight babies is born too soon. Disparities persist. Rates among blacks are nearly twice as high as whites or Asians.

An even larger disparity exists between costs and research; preterm birth is the 7th leading U.S. health care expenditure ($26B), yet perinatal health research ranks only 63rd in NIH funding.

What is Needed

Many causes, solutions, and burdens of preterm birth and stillbirth remain unknown or untold. We urgently need better data and tools, and more champions and resources.

About GAPPS

Seattle Children’s launched the Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth (GAPPS) to address these challenges. Our mission is to lead a collaborative, global effort to increase awareness and accelerate innovative research and interventions that will improve maternal, newborn and child health outcomes.

The GAPPS Headquarters

1100 Olive Way, Suite 1000
Seattle, WA 98101
USA

Phone: 206-884-2777
Fax: 206-884-1040
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