WORLD PREMATURITY DAY 2019

Babies born less than 37 weeks in gestational age are considered premature and are often referred to as ‘premmies’. Each year, about 15 million babies (approximately one in 10) are born prematurely worldwide. Last year alone, the Neonatal Unit (NNU) at Northwick Park Hospital (NPH) cared for 460 premature babies. World Prematurity Day was first created in 2008 and 11 years on, it has evolved into an annual global movement that raises awareness of preterm birth and the challenges that families face.

OUR TINIEST OF PATIENTS

Babies born prematurely have an increased risk of early death, and those who survive are likely to be afflicted chronic ill-health or disability. Sadly, despite the advances of medical technology and treatment for premmies, we continue to witness a higher mortality rate than babies who are born at a later stage of the pregnancy. Parents and family members of these premature babies also require a strong support system to help them cope with what is a very intense and emotional time for them.

Our NNU provide care for up to 28 babies, eight of whom might require high-dependency care. Our doctors and nurses understand the struggles that come with having a premature baby. They work round-the-clock to ensure these babies are given the medical help and attention they so desperately need.

A SMALL GIFT

With your help, we can raise funds to help improve the services provided at the NNU.  Equipment such as a reclining feeding chair helps encourage vital skin-to-skin contact between a parent and their premature baby, as it enables parents to hold their babies in a safe and comfortable way, even with all the tubes and wires needed for their treatment. This much-needed quality time is crucial for the overall development of premature babies.

THANK YOU!

Thank you for taking the time to visit and read our page. Together, we can help give these vulnerable babies get the very best start in life.

REMEMBER TO GIFT AID!

Please don’t forget to Gift Aid your donation! This will help increase the value of your donation by 25% at no extra cost to you!