The United States is grappling with a concerning surge in preterm birth rates, posing potential health risks for both infants and mothers, according to a new report released by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics. The study, published this week, underscores a 12% rise in preterm births – those occurring before 37 weeks of gestation – between 2014 and 2022, climbing from 7.74% to 8.67%.
Demographic Disparities Persist: Black and Hispanic Mothers More Vulnerable
The increase in preterm births appears to be consistent across various demographics, transcending age and race. However, the report notes that Black and Hispanic mothers are more susceptible to early deliveries compared to their White counterparts. Additionally, older mothers are generally more prone to preterm births than younger mothers.
Immediate and Long-term Health Implications
Babies born prematurely face short-term health challenges, including difficulties in fighting off infections, respiratory issues, and stomach complications due to incomplete development. Such infants often require extended hospital stays. The long-term consequences may manifest as asthma, dental problems, hearing loss, stomach issues, and potential intellectual and developmental delays, as indicated by the March of Dimes. Moreover, pregnant individuals can also experience health problems when delivering early.
Mysterious Surge: Environmental Factors and Multifactorial Causes
Despite the alarming trend, the report does not offer specific reasons for the increase. Experts, including Dr. Kaitlyn Stanhope from Emory University, speculate that factors such as delayed parenthood and increased use of IVF may contribute to the rise, but these alone may not fully explain the phenomenon. Environmental factors, including exposure to particle pollution, are also under consideration, as studies have linked them to increased preterm births.
Psychosocial stressors, such as chronic stress, anxiety, lack of support, unstable housing, and poor nutrition, are identified as potential contributors to the rise in preterm births. Dr. Ellie Ragsdale from University Hospitals in Cleveland suggests that a general decline in health among Americans, marked by increasing obesity rates, could be a significant factor.
Covid-19 Pandemic’s Impact: A Potential Catalyst
Dr. Manisha Gandhi, chair of the Committee on Clinical Practice Guidelines-Obstetrics for the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, believes the Covid-19 pandemic may have influenced the rise in preterm births. Studies have indicated a higher risk of early delivery among individuals infected with Covid-19. Postponed medical appointments during the pandemic may also have contributed to overall health challenges, affecting pregnancy outcomes.
Health Prioritization Urged for Expectant Individuals
To address the escalating preterm birth rates, health experts emphasize the importance of prioritizing health before pregnancy. Dr. Gandhi urges individuals to focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, controlling blood pressure, and managing conditions like diabetes before conceiving. Acknowledging the multifaceted nature of the issue, experts stress the need for further research to unravel the mysterious causes behind the surge in preterm births in the United States.