Preterm babies at a glance

Preterm births, defined as a birth before 37.0 weeks gestation, are a main worldwide health problem. In the world, every year, about 15 million babies are born preterm, and their incidence is rising. Broadly outcomes improve with increasing gestational age; however, health care needs for preterm survivors can be extensive, both in terms of immediate postnatal support for infants and their families and in terms of lifelong support. The effect on the lifespan for the survivors especially in terms of mental health and cardiometabolic status need more attention and researches. A deeper awareness by pediatricians to the impact of preterm birth on the developing of adult diseases and pathological conditions could be of help in preserving and maintaining health once the child become an adult and in optimizing his/her impact on society.