PRESS RELEASE

World Prematurity Day 2023 — Small Actions — BIG IMPACT: immediate skin-to-skin care for every baby, everywhere

Yaoundé, November 17, 2023 — World Prematurity Day is observed on 17 November. This day is dedicated to raising awareness among parents, families, and communities about the challenges of prematurity. It also celebrates the lives of premature children and their families in Cameroon and globally.

Prematurity is the leading cause of death among newborns. Annually, about 15 million babies worldwide are born prematurely, equating to 1 in 10 births (WHO). In Cameroon, prematurity is a significant public health issue, with approximately 28% of newborn deaths due to prematurity-related complications (MoH, Cameroon).

This year, under the theme “Small Actions — BIG IMPACT: immediate skin-to-skin care for every baby, everywhere,” Cameroon joins the global community in highlighting the benefits of immediate skin-to-skin contact. Skin-to-skin contact right after birth enhances newborn survival. Known as the Kangaroo Mother Care method, continuous skin-to-skin contact by a mother, caregiver, or parent significantly reduces newborn mortality by 32% (WHO). This method keeps babies warm, promotes breastfeeding, lowers stress levels, and strengthens family bonds.

Since early November 2023, health staff and media professionals have been briefed on this critical issue. Activities carried out, include consultations for children with preterm birth, educational talks on prematurity during vaccination sessions, and awareness campaigns in outpatient departments. Health experts are actively engaging with media to increase family awareness and foster community-level involvement.

UNICEF continues to advocate for:

- Mobilizing international and national resources to enhance the quality of care for mothers and newborns, especially the most vulnerable.

- Allocating resources to expand the practice of Kangaroo Mother Care in Cameroon, focusing on priority regions and child-friendly municipalities.

- Supporting operational actions to prevent premature births and provide quality care for mothers and babies born prematurely.

About UNICEF

UNICEF operates in some of the world’s most challenging environments to reach the most disadvantaged children. In over 190 countries and territories, we strive for every child, everywhere, to create a better world for all. UNICEF has been active in Cameroon since 1975, advocating for children’s rights, addressing their basic needs, and enhancing opportunities for them to reach their full potential, regardless of where they reside in the country.

For more information, please contact:

Laure Atangana-Menounga, Communication specialist, latangana-menounga@unicef.org

Leonard Kouadio, Head of Health & HIV section, lkouadio@unicef.org