IJSRP, Volume 14, Issue 10, October 2024 Edition [ISSN 2250-3153]
Dr. Vanita Goel
Abstract:
Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, remains a major global public health challenge. In 2022, an estimated 15 million babies were born prematurely, accounting for approximately 10% of all births (World Health Organization, 2023). Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal death and can have life-long consequences for both the infant and mother, including respiratory distress, developmental delays, and an increased risk of chronic diseases later in life (Placeholder - see note). Existing risk assessment tools often lack the precision to accurately identify those most likely to experience preterm labor, hindering our ability to implement targeted preventative interventions. Biomarkers, measurable biological indicators, offer the potential to revolutionize how we predict and manage preterm birth risk.