The Human Safety Net Activity Report 2019 THE CHALLENGE:

Helping Babies Born Preterm Or Suffering From Birth Complications Like Asphyxia

A healthy newborn can bring immeasurable joy and happiness to parents, families and communities. But when the newborn is small or sick, emotions can turn to worry and sadness in a heartbeat. If he or she is at high risk of death or disability, these concerns can become terrible burdens.

Around the world 2.5 million children died during the first month of life in 2018. The first hours, days and weeks constitute the riskiest period for newborns. It is estimated that somewhere between 40% and 50% of deaths among children five and under happen during this crucial period. Around the world, the majority of these deaths happen to babies born preterm (before 37 full weeks of gestation) and/or suffering from birth asphyxia (an oxygen deficit at delivery)14 . Even when asphyxia or other complications do not result in infant deaths, many survivors still face a lifetime of disability, including learning disabilities, problems with vision and hearing difficulties15.

14 WHO (2019). Newborns: reducing mortality.

15 WHO (2019). Survive and thrive: transforming care for every small and sick newborn.