Preterm birth prevention program trial shows promise

Embargoed until: Publicly released: 2021-03-24 05:00

Australia; WA; ACT

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A multifaceted preterm birth prevention initiative launched in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) in 2019 reduced rates of preterm birth by 10 per cent 16 months after implementation, according to Aussie researchers. They say rates of preterm birth were lower than any of the preceding five years and the program resulted in 45 averted or delayed preterm births. The number of planned early-term births with no medical indication was also significantly reduced by 34.5 per cent and resulted in 77 averted or delayed early-term births. The results highlight the importance of prioritising early birth prevention, education, and research, and the initiative should be expanded nationwide, they conclude.