Uganda will on Tuesday November 29th 2016 commemorate the World Prematurity Day which falls on November 17th annually.
Uganda postponed the national celebrations to 29th.
Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku, the state minister for primary health care told the press at the ministry head offices in Kampala today that the day aims at raising awareness about the issues associated with preterm birth and support to affected families.
Globally, newborns born prematurely constitute a large group under care, and this applies to Uganda too.
Medically, the term prematurity refers to the birth of a baby less than 37 weeks after the mother’s normal period. It is also known as preterm birth or premature birth.
According to Dr. Moriku, prematurity is one the key causes of newborn mortality and morbidity in Uganda.
Complications of prematurity are the leading cause of neonatal mortality and are directly responsible for 38% of neonatal deaths in Uganda.
“Each year, about 225,000 babies are born prematurely while the country loses, on an annual basis, up to 9,800 children under five from complications related to prematurity” Moriku added.
The minister urges pregnant mothers to attend all required antenatal care visits with the first visit starting in the first trimester.
“It is recommended to have at least four antenatal visits to health facilities so that a mother can receive information, care and support to prevent premature births.”
Women are also advised to stay away from alcohol during pregnancy as it is one leading causes of premature births.
