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In 2003, the March of Dimes launched an inspiring five-year,
$75 million
prematurity campaign
to help American families have healthy babies. By funding research and education programs for
the public and health care providers, the campaign aims to reduce the rate of prematurity by 15
percent and to increase public awareness. Here’s what the campaign has already accomplished:
In 2003, the March of Dimes awarded 39 national
research grants related
to prematurity. Grantees are working to find ways to prevent premature birth and address the health
problems of babies born prematurely.
The March of Dimes convened a panel of medical
and scientific leaders to identify research priorities that show the most promise for reducing
preterm birth rates. The committee is made up of experts representing a variety of disciplines,
including obstetrics/gynecology, pediatrics, public health and nursing.
Throughout the year, the March of Dimes reached out to the general public and pregnant women in
a number of ways: through pamphlets, posters, fact sheets, videos, public service announcements,
news releases and appearances on radio and television and through Prematurity Awareness Day in November.
With funding assistance from the Johnson &
Johnson Pediatric Institute, the March of Dimes supported over 227
grand rounds in 45 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico.
NICU Family Support sites in local hospitals serve families of newborns
admitted to neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). NICU family support offers information and support
to families throughout the hospitalization, when the baby goes home or during the tragedy of newborn
death. In 2003, new sites were added, and by 2007, the goal is to have sites at 50 NICUs nationwide.
March of Dimes chapters gave more than $6.4 million in grants to community-based
programs aimed at lowering premature birth rates. Many of these programs assist women who are at
high risk of preterm labor. Activities include outreach, education and improved prenatal care.
With your help, we can continue our work to find answers. By joining WalkAmerica, you help us fight
to save babies. Register
to walk now.
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