Prematurity: An Overview and Public Health Impacts of Being Born Too Early (original) (raw)

National estimates indicate that preterm birth affects nearly 15 million infants globally, with the burden predominantly seen in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In Ethiopia, a significant portion of neonatal and under-five mortality is attributed to complications arising from prematurity. This paper highlights the pressing need for a re-evaluation of causes of death classifications for preterm infants, moving beyond generic attributions of "prematurity" to understand specific complications like Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) and sepsis. Recommendations are made for enhancing healthcare interventions, policy dialogues, and investments in neonatal health to effectively reduce preterm mortality.