Nate Brown, March of Dimes, (202) 292-2755, nbrown@marchofdimes.com
Todd P. Dezen, March of Dimes, (914) 997-4608, tdezen@marchofdimes.com
Elizabeth Lynch, March of Dimes, (914) 997-4286, elynch@marchofdimes.com
WASHINGTON, JULY 28, 2011 — Senators Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Representatives Anna Eshoo (D-CA) and Leonard Lance (R-NJ) today introduced the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act, which will expand research, education and intervention activities related to preterm birth and infant mortality.
“The March of Dimes applauds the leadership of Senators Alexander and Bennet and Representatives Eshoo and Lance for their introduction of the PREEMIE Reauthorization Act, a bill to advance our understanding of the causes of preterm birth and drive treatment and prevention,” says Dr. Jennifer L. Howse, President of the March of Dimes. “Renewal of the 2006 PREEMIE Act is a vital component of March of Dimes’ comprehensive efforts across the country to reduce the number of infant deaths and childhood disabilities caused by premature birth, which is estimated to cost our society $26 billion a year.”
The 2006 PREEMIE Act, abbreviated from the Prematurity Research Expansion and Education for Mothers who Deliver Infants Early Act, developed a public-private agenda aimed at reducing preterm labor and delivery.
“We are making progress – preterm birth rates have dropped for three consecutive years,” says Dr. Howse. “The PREEMIE Reauthorization Act will build upon this momentum and provide us with new tools and knowledge to improve the lives and health of America’s mothers and children.”
The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose volunteers and staff work to improve the health of infants and children by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education and advocacy. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.
