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Article type :

Original Article

Author :

Girish BL, Indira N, Dhananjaya BS, Omkarmurthy K

Volume :

4

Issue :

1

Abstract :

Background: Preterm birth is well known condition causing morbidity and mortality, leading to curtailing life and also potential of life in long term. The burden not only affects the individual but also the family, community and nation. The issues concerned vary from social to financial issues. The requirement for reduction in IMR calls for prevention and management of Preterm births. Objectives: Infant mortality rate is one of the prime indicators of health services of health delivery systems and commitment of a country towards child health. The preterm births have been considered as prime contributor to infant mortality and under 5 mortality. Global efforts have been made to reduce Preterm births and thereby IMR, by World Health Organisation. Aggressive health policy and dedicated programmes were launched in India since past few years. This study is undertaken to study the performance at local region and to analyse trends at national levels. Material and Method: The data available at the reproductive and child health officer, RCHO is taken up for analyses. Results: Total live births for the year 2015-16 were 34,340. The total number of preterm delivery for the same period was 2507 accounting for 7.3% of all live births. The infant deaths were 436 contributing to a Infant Mortality Rate of 12.69 per 1000live births. Total neonatal deaths were 272, which contributed to 62.38% of infant deaths. The proportion of preterm deaths in neonatal death was 44.11%. Conclusion: Preterm birth continues to contribute significantly towards neonatal and infant deaths. Preterm births estimates have shown wide disparities in estimates and survival. At global level, India has highest contribution in terms of total preterm births annually, ranking number one in the world. To achieve the targets extra efforts has to be made to decrease preterm births and mortality related to the same disorder. Newer strategies with more commitment can help achieve the new targets.