A new research study released today shows rates of pre-term birth around the world have actually decreased over 30 years.

But the same research is showing that here in Australia, the rates of babies born before 37 weeks are increasing, a trend seen in several high-income countries.

WA Obstetrics specialist Professor John Newnham AM, a world recognised leader in the prevention of pre-term birth, said in the developed world the rate has been rising but in the developing world, the Journal of American Medical Association suggests it could be falling.

"Half of all births in the world do not have a medical attendant, so as resources start increasing and you develop ultrasound, you then know the age of the pregnancy, and so your previous data then becomes very uncertain," he told Liam Bartlett on 6PR Mornings.

A new research study released today shows rates of pre-term birth around the world have actually decreased over 30 years.
But the same research is showing that here in Australia, the rates of babies born before 37 weeks are increasing, a trend seen in several high-income countries.
WA Obstetrics specialist Professor John Newnham AM, a world recognised leader in the prevention of pre-term birth, said in the developed world the rate has been rising but in the developing world, the Journal of American Medical Association suggests it could be falling.
"Half of all births in the world do not have a medical attendant, so as resources start increasing and you develop ultrasound, you then know the age of the pregnancy, and so your previous data then becomes very uncertain," he told Liam Bartlett on 6PR Mornings.

Gary Adshead will keep you up to date with all the latest breaking stories and issues on 6PR Mornings.

Gary Adshead will keep you up to date with all the latest breaking stories and issues on 6PR Mornings.

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