Premature: A child of 10 is born too early

Premature babies are about 10% (those under 32 weeks about 1%), but account for more than 50% of neonatal deaths and about 40% of childhood deaths. This is due to the fact that premature newborns are at high risk for serious long-term illnesses (neurosenzory, cognitive, breathing) and requires significant resources from the National Health Service, both during hospital stay and after discharge.

Many health problems

To launch the alarm is Sin (Italian Neonatology Society). Respiratory problems affect 42% of premature babies, most commonly respiratory distress syndrome (29%). Then, there is Pda (ductus arteriosus permeability) that accounts for 7.9% and sepsis (6.3%). Many of the risks faced by premature babies are related immune system yet underdeveloped, making them particularly vulnerable to bacterial attack, coupled with the need for invasive therapies that favor the entry of germs responsible for serious hospital infections.

Excellencies, but more to be done

Organizing assistance for those who are premature sees the pinnacles of absolute excellence in our country. But much remains to be done, too, because the regional situation is uneven. Parents must have guaranteed access 24 hours a day to their departments Neonatal intensive therapy in all regions: besides being important for the affective and attachment relationship, it favors neuro-behavioral development of the newborn, as it is scientifically acknowledged, it is essential to support breastfeeding and contains pain. Also, careful supervision of preterm infants should be guaranteed for at least the first three years of life, also by building a network between all the social and health organizations in the area.

A great misinformation

According to recent data, one-third of parents reach premature birth without hearing of premature birth (), and even those who have such information are not trained. From the moment of birth, healthcare professionals play a decisive role: in 61% of cases, the neonatologist and 62% nurses act as support for parents. Great support is also given to other parents who, in 56% of cases, have played a significant role in overcoming this phase.