Premature birth is the most serious health problem facing America’s babies and is the leading cause of newborn death.  South Carolina has one of the highest preterm birth rates in the nation, affecting 1 in 6 births. That’s 173 babies a week in South Carolina!

• The March of Dimes Premature Birth Campaign seeks to understand and prevent premature birth in order to reduce the emotional and financial costs associated with babies born too soon and too small.  Over $39 million is invested annually by the March of Dimes to support research aimed at preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant death. In 2007, the South Carolina Chapter not only contributed to the national grants, but also earmarked an additional $240,000 to sponsor research scientists working to improve the health of babies.  
  
• March of Dimes NICU Family Support was launched in 2001 to provide information and comfort to families during the NICU hospitalization, the transition home, and in the event of a newborn's death. The program is housed at Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center Children’s Hospital. In 2007, NICU Family Support distributed parent care kits and provided support services to over 800 families, as well as providing continuing education services to NICU staff. 
  
• Educational opportunities were provided throughout the state to healthcare providers.  The March of Dimes partners with the South Carolina Perinatal Association, which educates physicians and nurses on best practices in perinatal medicine.  More than 400 healthcare professionals attended a training or conference.  In addition, three grand rounds were provided by March of Dimes. 
  
• The March of Dimes Chapter Community Grants Program provides funding for projects in South Carolina’s communities.  In 2007, more than $630,000 was distributed state-wide to over 25 organizations.  Projects focused on education and support services for expectant women, working individually with women at an increased risk for preterm birth, educating families and the general public on the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of preterm labor and of reducing infant mortality. 
   
• Prematurity Awareness Month occurs each year in November.  In November 2007, more than 1 million South Carolinians were reached with awareness messages including congregational messages within the faith community, educational opportunities, public service announcements by media partners,  the South Carolina March of Dimes Volunteer  Leadership Conference, and more.  
   
  The March of Dimes maintains an active, well-respected, non-partisan presence in the political arena.  In 2007, the Chapter helped advocate for the passage of increased State Children’s Health Insurance Program from 150% of poverty level to 200% of poverty.  This is estimated to provide an additional 60,000 children with healthcare coverage in South Carolina.  In addition, March of Dimes helped in the efforts to pass local smoking ordnances, creating cleaner air for moms and babies.