Rise in Preterm and Early-Term Births in the U.S. Raises Concerns for Baby Health, CDC Data Shows
The United States has witnessed a concerning increase in preterm and early-term births from 2014 to 2022, posing risks to the health of newborns. The latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the preterm birth rate, which refers to deliveries before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy, has risen by 12% during this time period. Additionally, early-term birth rates, occurring between 37 and 38 completed weeks, have increased by 20%. In comparison, full-term births, which take place at 39 to 40 weeks, remain stable.
The analysis conducted by the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics focuses solely on singleton births, as multiple births such as twins and triplets tend to occur at earlier gestational ages. The authors of the study emphasize that gestational age is a significant predictor of both short- and long-term morbidity and early mortality. While preterm births carry the highest risk of adverse outcomes, early-term births also face elevated risks compared to full-term births.
Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, expressed her concerns regarding this shift towards earlier births during an interview on “CBS Mornings.” She explained that even if a baby is born early term, not preterm, there can still be complications. These complications may include underdeveloped lungs, difficulty regulating temperature and blood sugar levels, and the absence of the suckling reflex required for feeding. Consequently, babies born early term often require longer hospital stays to ensure their survival.
While the increase in earlier births can be partially attributed to early induction and cesarean sections, Gounder noted that the trends for these procedures have actually been declining over the past decade or so. Therefore, other factors must be contributing to this shift. One such factor is the rising trend of women having babies at an older age, which inherently increases the risk of preterm birth. However, the increase in preterm and early-term births was observed across all age groups.
Gounder further explained that aside from age, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes are all factors that raise the risk of these issues with earlier preterm birth. Although obesity itself does not directly cause early births, it is associated with complications like preeclampsia, which can lead to premature delivery. Gounder emphasized the importance of addressing these health issues before pregnancy, as waiting until pregnancy to address them may be too late. It is crucial for individuals to enter pregnancy in the best possible health condition.
For pregnant individuals, Gounder advises seeking medical attention sooner if they experience headaches, changes in urination patterns, or increased blood pressure. However, access to healthcare plays a significant role in addressing these concerns. Gounder highlighted that approximately one-third of people do not have health insurance through their job, which underscores the need for alternative options such as signing up for coverage through the Affordable Care Act, marketplace plans, or receiving care through Medicaid. Gounder emphasized the importance of eligible individuals taking advantage of these opportunities to secure access to primary care doctors.
In conclusion, the rise in preterm and early-term births in the United States is a cause for concern. The CDC data highlights the increased risks faced by babies born before 37 completed weeks of pregnancy and those born between 37 and 38 weeks. While factors such as early induction and cesarean sections have been on the decline, other factors like advanced maternal age, obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes contribute to the rise in earlier births. It is crucial for individuals to prioritize their health before pregnancy and seek early medical attention if experiencing any concerning symptoms during pregnancy. Access to healthcare is also vital in ensuring the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
