The births of premature babies have increased markedly in recent years. Currently in Europe 7.1% of babies are born before term, while in Spain the prematurity rate is between 8% and 12%.
The numbers grow every year, as do the needs of these vulnerable babies in a hurry to reach the world. That is why the parents of premature children under the umbrella of EFCNI (European Foundation for the Care of Premature Babies), the largest network that groups organizations across Europe, presented a study on the European Parliament what Europe can do for premature babies.
The main claim is the need to implement a coordinated European policy for the care of these children, denouncing some worrying "passivity" of the authorities in the face of the major cause of infant mortality in developed and developing countries.
The study is titled "Too small, too late? Why Europe should do more for premature babies ”and is based on the situation of 13 European countries. From those with the lowest rates in the region such as Sweden and France (6.3%) to the highest rates such as Austria (11.4%).
In general terms, the aim is to raise awareness about the problems of premature babies, to establish a common national policy on premature babies coordinated with the member states of the European Union, to promote scientific research on the causes of prematurity, to establish permanent coordination between the environments and the professionals involved in the care of these children. Definitely, improve the neonatal care of these little ones.
According to the document presented, the national and EU authorities have been asked to:
1) social inequalities linked to prematurity are recognized through member states
2) a systematic data monitoring is introduced
3) a coordinated neonatal health policy in the EU is developed and implemented, as well as social policies
4) High quality standards are promoted for prevention, treatment and long-term care
5) further research, education and exchange of good practices are developed
Prematurity increases by leaps and bounds in developed countries and authorities should take action on the matter because there is so much what Europe can (and should) do for premature babies.
Policies need to be implemented to improve the treatment and development of premature babies. Hopefully, thanks to these fathers and mothers they can soon come true.
