This House resolution expresses support for designating November as "Prematurity Awareness Month." It notes rising problems in maternal and infant health, high numbers of preterm births, and racial disparities in outcomes. The text cites that more than 370,000 babies (about 1 in 10) were born preterm in 2022, that prematurity is the leading cause of newborn death and disability, and that preterm birth accounts for 35.8 percent of infant deaths. The resolution also cites an estimated annual societal economic cost of preterm birth of $25,200,000,000 and marks November 2025 as the 22nd anniversary of Prematurity Awareness Month.
The resolution calls on people, interest groups, and those affected to observe Prematurity Awareness Month with events and activities, promote awareness, and encourage parents and communities to support preterm birth prevention programs. The text urges attention to prevention, research, and programs that address risk factors and health disparities.
No publicly available information.
Supporters say the designation will raise awareness about preterm birth and the broader maternal and infant health crisis. The resolution emphasizes the high and rising numbers of preterm births, the health harms caused by prematurity (including long-term disability and infant death), and the racial and geographic disparities in outcomes. It highlights the need for research, evidence-based public health programs, and actions to reduce risk factors and improve social determinants of health.
No publicly available information.