Key messages

1in 10 babies globally is born too soon. Prematurity is the leading cause of preventable child deaths, with the vast majority (at least 80%) happening in low and middle-income countries.
Progress in child survival will not be possible without improving outcomes for small and preterm babies.
Failing to provide the care needed by preterm babies means losing lives and losing futures filled with love, learning, and opportunity.
Investments in quality small and sick newborn care will improve the survival of these babies.
Let’s give every baby a strong, hopeful future beyond their birthday. Join us in raising awareness, supporting families, and advocating for the care every baby deserves.

In the poorest countries, most very preterm babies (under 32 weeks) die within days – leading to hundreds of thousands of preventable deaths each year – whereas in high-income countries, almost all survive.
With a package of newborn care interventions – like continuous skin-to-skin contact, breathing support, breastfeeding and infection control – three-quarters of these babies’ deaths are preventable.
It’s time to ensure every baby gets the care they need, by investing in special care for small and sick babies, alongside quality maternity services and health promotion to protect women’s underlying health.

Preterm babies often have underdeveloped lungs, brains, immune systems, and temperature regulation, making them especially vulnerable to life-threatening complications.
Very preterm babies need round the clock inpatient care from trained neonatal practitioners, with the days after birth critical to ensure survival.
Effective interventions are feasible and cost-effective in all settings, including:

Skin to skin contact: Kangaroo mother care – being held skin to skin by a caregiver – prevents hypothermia and promotes bonding. It is a critical part of care for all small and preterm babies, including if they are in intensive care.
Respiratory support: Non-invasive ventilation (through CPAP) saves lives, enabling healthy breathing without the need for mechanical ventilators that carry risks.
Early breastfeeding: Breast milk boosts immunity and supports healthy growth and development.
Infection prevention: Clean environments and access to antibiotics, if needed, are critical to reduce risks from life-threatening infections.
Family-centred care: Keeping parents close and involving them at every step improves outcomes and reduces stress for both infants and caregivers.

Behind every preterm baby is a family navigating fear, uncertainty, and emotional strain. Parents often face long hospital stays, financial stress, and the trauma of watching their newborn fight to survive.
Evidence shows supporting families is not optional – it’s essential to improving outcomes for preterm babies.

They need emotional support and compassionate care from health professionals, as well as practical help with breastfeeding or milk provision, kangaroo mother care, and navigating hospital systems.
They need to be protected financially, with access to affordable care and social support to reduce the burden of medical costs, as well as additional parental leave so they can care for their tiny babies.
They need to be included through family-centred approaches that allow parents to be physically close – sharing a room with round the clock access – and involved in every aspect of decision-making around their baby’s medical care.

By investing in maternal health, improving care, and empowering families, we can reduce the risk and protect the futures of millions of babies.
Preventive efforts for preterm birth include early and regular prenatal care – with early ultrasound to monitor fetal growth, identify multiple pregnancies and detect complications early; effective management of chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or infections; and where appropriate, treatments for those showing signs of or at high risk of preterm birth.
While many preterm births occur without known risk factors, there are some steps women can take to reduce risks, including healthy nutrition and maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and alcohol use, attending all antenatal checks, and seeking immediate medical attention if there are any warning signs of early labour.