Everyday, one in eight infants born in the U.S. arrives too soon.  Premature birth can happen to any pregnant woman, and no one knows why.  It is a serious, common and costly problem. 

One-third of U.S. infant deaths are because of premature birth, according to a study published in the September issue of the journal Pediatrics.  The study finds that 34% of infant deaths were caused by premature birth and that more than 95% of the deaths occurred in infants born before 32 weeks' gestation.  According to an Institute of Medicine report released in July 2006, one in eight infants in the U.S., or more than 500,000 annually, is born at least three weeks early.

The March of Dimes Prematurity Campaign is a national education and research initiative designed to raise awareness and reduce the rate of premature births.  As part of this effort, the March of Dimes (MoD) has launched a new product for women's health care providers:  personalized Appointment Reminder Cards (ARCs) that feature ten different "Tips for a Healthy Pregnancy."  These tips are intended for all women of childbearing age to promote healthy behaviors and improve birth outcomes.  MoD is offering ACNM members a 13% discount on every box purchased.  To support the campaign and order a box of 300 ARCs, click here.  A portion of the proceeds will help fund the research and education initiatives of the March of Dimes Prematurity Campaign.

MoD has also created a new online curriculum that helps health professionals learn to better identify patients at risk for having a premature baby.  The Compendium is a comprehensive resource of clinical, epidemiological and scientific information about premature birth, designed for use by obstetricians, pediatricians, nurses, advance practice nurses, family physicians, residents, and interns.  This curriculum can facilitate personal learning or group presentation and will provide continuing education credits.


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