Give preterm babies a strong start for a hopeful future

Every year, World Prematurity Day (15 November) highlights the urgent need to care for babies born too soon. This year's theme echoes WHO's Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures campaign, reminding us that every child deserves a fair chance at life, starting from their very first moments.

Globally, 1 in 10 babies is preterm, with most preventable deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Very preterm babies, especially those under 32 weeks, face life-threatening complications such as underdeveloped lungs, brains, and immune systems, as well as difficulty regulating temperature.

While almost all very preterm babies survive in high-income countries, survival in the poorest settings is rare.

Key actions to protect preterm babies:

• Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) – skin-to-skin contact prevents hypothermia, strengthens bonding, and improves survival.

• Early and exclusive breastfeeding – provides immunity, supports growth, and promotes development.

• Respiratory support – non-invasive ventilation, like CPAP, saves lives and reduces complications.

• Infection prevention – clean environments and timely access to antibiotics reduce risks.

• Family-centred care – keeping parents close, involving them in care decisions, and supporting emotional and practical needs improves outcomes.

System-level interventions:

• Invest in neonatal units, trained staff, life-saving equipment, and dedicated spaces.

• Strengthen maternal health services to prevent preterm births and detect complications early.

• Provide equitable access to care so survival does not depend on geography or income.

• Support families with financial, emotional, and practical resources during hospitalisation.

Failing to provide these interventions not only loses lives but also loses futures filled with potential. By acting now, communities, health systems, and governments can ensure that every preterm baby has a strong start, survives, and thrives, turning fragile beginnings into hopeful futures.

Source: World Health Organisation