World Prematurity Day

The International Day of Premature Birth, also known as World Prematurity Day, is observed annually on November 17, a dedicated day to raise global awareness of preterm birth and its impact on babies, families, health systems and societies.

History of World Prematurity Day

The day originated in 2008, initiated by the European Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (EFCNI) together with parent-organisations in Europe, to spotlight the global challenge of preterm birth.
By 2011 it had grown into an international observance, spanning dozens of countries and supported by major health organisations.
In 2025 the World Health Organization (WHO) officially added the day to its health calendar and designated November 15 henceforth for the observance.

Why is World Prematurity Day important?

Premature birth—defined as baby born before 37 weeks of gestation—is a leading cause of neonatal death and disability worldwide. Around 1 in 10 babies are born prematurely each year globally.
This day is important because it draws attention to the urgent need for quality neonatal care, parent-support, research and health-system investment to improve survival and long-term outcomes for preterm infants and their families.

Here are five simple things the day supports:

• Promoting awareness that premature birth affects millions of babies and families worldwide.
• Highlighting that many prematurity-related complications are preventable with proper care.
• Encouraging improved access to quality neonatal and maternal healthcare.
• Recognising the emotional, social and economic burdens families face when a baby is born too soon.
• Inspiring advocacy, funding and policy changes to better support preterm babies and their families.

How to Observe World Prematurity Day

On this day you might participate in or support awareness campaigns, share stories of resilience, advocate for better neonatal care or simply learn about the issue of prematurity. It’s also a moment to acknowledge the courage of families, healthcare professionals and newborns facing this challenge. Emotionally, the day invites empathy, hope and commitment—to ensure every baby has a better start.
Here are five practical ideas to observe:

• Wear a purple ribbon or symbol (purple is the awareness colour) to show support.
• Share a social-media post raising awareness about preterm birth, using hashtags like #WorldPrematurityDay.
• Reach out to a neonatal care unit or parent-support organisation and inquire how you can help or support their work.
• Read or share a story of a preterm baby or family-journey to highlight survival, care and hope.
• Advocate in your community or workplace for better maternal and newborn health services.

International Day of Premature Birth Dates Table