Oral

Each year, preterm birth affects more than 500,000 babies—that's 1 of every 8 infants born in the United States. Preterm birth is the birth of an infant prior to 37 weeks gestation. It is the most frequent cause of infant death, the leading cause of long-term neurological disabilities in children, and costs the U.S. health care system more than $26 billion each year. The causes of preterm births are numerous, complex, and remain poorly understood. Psychosocial, biological, environmental (e.g., nutritional) and clinical factors all affect a woman’s risk of preterm birth. Women who have low levels of Vitamin D may be at higher risk for problems during pregnancy, including preterm birth. Data from CDC’s National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) indicates that non-Hispanic pregnant black women have lower levels of Vitamin D compared to both non-Hispanic pregnant white women and Hispanic women. Non-Hispanic black mothers also have increased preterm delivery rates. State health departments, university researchers, health care providers, and community organizations are working to understand the multiple reasons for preterm births and advance new strategies for prevention.

Session Objectives: Discuss new scientific research examining the role of vitamin D in preterm birth List at least two community-based preterm birth reduction programs

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)