Children who are born before term have higher death rates in childhood and are either childless or give birth to pre term babies in adult life. Scientists conducted studies on the health records of 1.2 million babies born in Norway from 1967 to 1988. This research study was conducted by Journal of the American Medical Association. Death rates in preterm babies are high not only in the first year but also in later age.   Image courtesy: Society for the protection of unborn children. Preterm babies were known to have higher incidence of lung problems, disabilities, blindness and mental retardation. Milestones are delayed in these babies. Preterm birth is the major cause of infant mortality and delay in milestones. This research is significant as it is focused on their health effects in later life. Percentage of preterm babies is on rise due to advances in medical care and late marriages. Babies born before term are at high risk as their organs have insufficient time to develop fully. They are 10 times more likely die before the age of six years. Preterm babies are those who are born before 37 week of pregnancy. Babies born between 28-32 weeks have lower death rates than those born between 22-27 weeks. Boys who are born before term are 76% less likely to reproduce in adulthood. Preterm girls are 67% less likely reproduce and are at increased risk of giving birth to pre term babies. So, doctors should try to avoid preterm baby births and women should try to avoid late marriages. Pregnant women should use any drug with Doctor's prescription. … [Read more...]