Prematurity has been escalating steadily and alarmingly over the past two decades.  Between 1981 and 2002, the rate of premature births rose from 9.4 percent to 12.1, an increase of more than 29 percent.  Every year more than 470,000 infants are born prematurely.  That's roughly comparable to the population of New Orleans or Cleveland.  Preterm delivery can happen to any pregnant woman. It's happening more and more often.  And, in nearly half the cases, no one knows why.

• In 2002, 480,812 babies were born prematurely in the United States.  7,536 babies were born too soon in Washington State
• Since 1992, the national preterm birth rate increased 13%.  Washington’s preterm birth rate increased 16% 
• $15.5 billion in hospital charges were due to prematurity (half of all newborn costs).  Direct health care costs to employers for a premature baby average $41,610 —15 times higher than the $2,830 for a healthy, full-term delivery.
• Premature birth leads to 100,000 new cases each year of serious, often life-long consequences such as: nuero-developmental disabilities (includes cerebral palsy), chronic respiratory problems, infections, vision & hearing problems, reduced nutrition & growth, mental retardation.
• Premature birth is the number one killer of newborns in the United States and the second highest cause of infant death.  Premature birth is the second leading cause of newborn and infant death in Washington State, killing 68 babies in 2002.
• The emotional toll is high for families experiencing hospitalization, infant loss, or years of health impacts.
  

Visit our Peristats website to view more information about prematurity in Washington.