New risk prediction model developed for premature births

Researchers hope treatment can be better-targeted and allow pregnant women to spend less unnecessary time in hospital

More and more babies are being born prematurely, according to the WHO (Getty Images)

A newly-developed tool could help protect babies and reduce women’s time in hospital by improving the prediction of premature births.

A premature birth is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as “being born alive before 37 weeks of pregnancy are completed.” An estimated 15 million babies are born pre-term each year, with related complications being the number one cause of death among children under five years of age.

The health of pre-term babies can be significantly improved by timely interventions.