DENVER, Colo. / Generally perceived to be a healthy place to live, Colorado may not be so for babies. Despite developments in healthcare and technology, the state’s preterm birth rate is 26th in the nation. Between 1989 and 2005, the number of Colorado babies born prematurely increased by 34 percent. Today, one in every eight Colorado babies is born too soon.

As part of a grassroots advocacy campaign to promote awareness of the issue of premature birth, the March of Dimes Colorado chapter will host approximately 30 volunteers at the State Capitol on Tuesday, April 17. Among their activities will be witnessing on the House floor the reading of a joint resolution promoting healthy birth outcomes and affirming the efforts of the March of Dimes and other like-minded groups. Representative Sara Gagliardi (D-Arvada), an advocate for maternal and child health, is the resolution’s sponsor.

“I’m proud to sponsor this resolution,” Rep. Gagliardi said.  “The magnitude of problems created by premature birth is felt throughout Colorado and the nation.  The estimated U.S. economic burden of preterm birth is $51,600 per infant, totaling more that $26 billion.  March of Dimes volunteers have been very successful in advocating for Colorado babies and moms by working to pass legislation that has increased access to care and improved newborn screening procedures.”

Shelly Goodchild, March of Dimes Colorado state director, also praised the successful efforts of Colorado’s volunteers. “In the past five years, our supporters have made it possible for us to fund in the state nearly $8.6 million in scientific research, community services and health education programs for professionals and the public at large. Plus, they have helped effect some very important legislation that benefits babies, moms and families. We are excited to host our volunteers at the capitol today and have them witness this resolution.”

Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. To achieve its mission, the March of Dimes funds research, community services, education and advocacy. To learn more about March of Dimes programs and activities in Colorado, visit marchofdimes.com/colorado.

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Media contacts
Sara Odendahl     
March of Dimes/Public Affairs Committee
(303) 506-2348     
sara.odendahl@gmail.com   

Becky Herlinger
March of Dimes/Director of Communications
(303) 692-0011
bherlinger@marchofdimes.com