Grand Canyon Times

Every November is recognized as Prematurity Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing awareness about preterm birth and its effects on families worldwide. The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) has partnered with the March of Dimes to improve maternal and infant health outcomes in Arizona.

Premature birth occurs when a baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation. World Prematurity Day was observed on November 17. Throughout this month, families, healthcare professionals, and organizations unite to share stories, provide resources, and advocate for research and healthcare improvements aimed at reducing preterm birth rates.

The March of Dimes has released an annual report card providing insights into maternal and infant health in Arizona. More information can be found on the March of Dimes Prematurity Awareness Month website.

Shadie Tofigh, Director of Maternal and Infant Health at March of Dimes, emphasized the importance of addressing health disparities: “Every baby deserves the chance for a healthy start, yet, the data continues to show unacceptable health outcomes for far too many families. To save lives and support healthy pregnancies and births, we must address health disparities in Arizona through equitable, science-backed solutions."

Arizona received a C grade for the third consecutive year regarding preterm births. In 2023, 9.9% of births were preterm. Infants born to Black mothers had a preterm birth rate 1.2 times higher than others. ADHS highlights various initiatives such as maternal transports to higher care levels and home visitation in at-risk communities to reduce these rates.

ADHS offers several programs supporting perinatal and maternal health:

- ASH Line: A hotline supporting pregnant women in quitting smoking.

- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Helpline: Offers information on pregnancy test sites and breastfeeding support.

- Hear Her Campaign: Raises awareness about urgent maternal warning signs.

- Strong Families AZ: Provides no-cost home visiting programs.

- Maternal Mental Health Hotline: Offers support for mental health during pregnancy.

- WIC Program: Provides nutrition education and referrals.

- AZ Health Zone: Promotes healthy food choices.

As Prematurity Awareness Month progresses this November, it is evident that reducing preterm births requires collective efforts from families, healthcare professionals, and communities.