World Prematurity Day | Kidadl

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World Prematurity Day

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Where is World Prematurity Day observed?  

The day is observed worldwide, with many countries having distinct ways of observing the day.

Who is World Prematurity Day observed by?

 Parents, families, healthcare professionals, politicians, hospitals, hospital staff, organizations, many healthcare centers, and many more observe this day.

When did World Prematurity Day first start?

Initially, this day was known as International Awareness Day For Preterm Birth and started being observed from the year 2008.

Who started World Prematurity Day?

The first day for premature birth was created by the European Parent Organization and was observed on November 17 to raise awareness about premature birth. This day later came to be known as World Prematurity Day.

This day aims to draw attention to health complications and in-hospital support and help for families of babies born before the due date.

History And Timeline

Starting from 2008, this day dedicated to premature births has been observed worldwide to raise awareness regarding preterm babies and the problems they face due to being born preterm.

2008

Declaration Of The Day

The European Parent Organization created an International Awareness Day For Preterm Birth.

2011

Change Of Name

The International Awareness Day For Preterm Birth was renamed World Prematurity Day.

November 17, 2013

Spread Of World Prematurity Day

In 2013, more than 60 countries observed the day.

November 17, 2018

Tenth Anniversary

The 10th anniversary of World Prematurity Day was observed.

November 17, 2021

Zero Separation Act Now!

The World Prematurity Day in 2021 followed the theme 'Zero Separation Act Now! Keep babies and parents born too soon together.'

Traditions And Customs

 Purple is the official color of the day. People who observe the day wear purple ribbon pins or use purple-colored light bulbs to show solidarity.

Ways To Observe World Prematurity Day

You can help out and volunteer at your local hospital or help cheer up the children and families admitted to the hospital. Wearing a purple ribbon to show support and raise awareness about the day can also be done. Providing classes to mothers and families on how to take care of babies born preterm is another way of observing the day.

Facts And Stats

  •  Babies born before 37 weeks of pregnancy are considered preterm babies.
  • 60% of preterm baby births occur in Africa and South Asia.
  • A preterm child can have further complications, including disabilities and health problems.
  • Children born before their due date have to stay longer at the hospital and require more support.

FAQs About World Prematurity Day

What is the ribbon color for premature babies?

The color of the ribbon used for children born before the due date is purple.

What qualifies as a premature baby?

Any baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy qualifies as a premature baby.

Who created World Prematurity Day?

The European Parent Organization started this day in the year 2008.

Do premature babies cry at birth?

They may cry softly or not at all.

What percent of babies are born prematurely?

One in ten babies are born prematurely. Approximately 15 million births out of the total births in a year are premature.

Hashtags To Use On Social Media

#WorldPrematurityDay
#PrematurityAwarenessMonth
#NICUheroes
#BlanketChange

When Is This Day Celebrated

Date Day
November 16, 2020 Monday
November 16, 2021 Tuesday
November 16, 2022 Wednesday
November 16, 2023 Thursday
November 16, 2024 Saturday

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