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Enhancing Newborn Care: A Comprehensive Approach in the Wake of Modern Challenges
The care of newborns demands meticulous attention, especially considering the delicate nature of their early life stage. In 2020, a concerning 2.4 million children globally succumbed in their first month, accounting for 47% of all child deaths under five years. This alarming statistic underscores the need for enhanced pediatric care and adherence to medical guidelines for newborn care, including vaccinations and other essential medical requirements.
The Impact of Environment and Genetics on Newborn Health
Impact of Environment on new born
Newborns are particularly susceptible to environmental factors, viruses, and other diseases, posing significant medical concerns. The genetic strength of an embryo, a factor not guaranteed even in natural conception, plays a crucial role in a baby’s survival and growth. In this context, In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Preimplantation Genetic Screening/Testing (PGS/PGT) emerges as a powerful solution. This advanced reproductive technology facilitates the selection of genetically robust embryos, significantly reducing the risk of mortality and ensuring the birth of a healthy baby.
Addressing Post-COVID-19 and Climate Change Challenges
Addressing Post-COVID-19 and Climate Change Challenges
The aftermath of COVID-19 and ongoing climate change have introduced new challenges for prospective parents, potentially impacting their future children. It is imperative for governments to conduct thorough case studies to understand these impacts and safeguard future generations from the consequences of COVID-19. The increased mortality among young individuals due to post-COVID complications raises concerns about the potential transference of these impacts from parents to their offspring. Selecting the best genetic makeup through advanced reproductive technologies could be a precautionary measure to combat future health challenges, including those posed by viruses like COVID-19.
Global Overview and Priority Strategies
- Global Trends: The decline in neonatal mortality from 5 million in 1990 to 2.4 million in 2020 indicates progress, yet the rate of reduction is slower compared to post-neonatal under-5 mortality.
- Geographical Disparities: A child’s survival chances vary significantly based on birth location. For instance, neonatal mortality rates in Sub-Saharan Africa were the highest globally in 2020.
- Primary Causes: The majority of neonatal deaths occur due to preterm birth, childbirth complications, infections, and birth defects. Malnutrition further exacerbates these risks.
Essential Newborn Care and WHO Response
- Basic Care Needs: All newborns require thermal protection, hygienic care, breastfeeding, health assessments, and preventive treatments.
- Special Care for Vulnerable Newborns: Low birth weight and preterm babies, as well as those born to HIV-infected mothers, require additional care.
- WHO Initiatives: The WHO is collaborating with health ministries to strengthen care around birth, improve maternal and newborn care quality, expand services for small and sick newborns, and reduce inequities.
Conclusion
The need for comprehensive newborn care is more critical than ever in the face of modern health challenges. By integrating advanced reproductive technologies like IVF with PGS/PGT and enhancing pediatric care, we can significantly improve the survival rates and health of newborns. Governments, healthcare providers, and communities must work collaboratively to implement effective strategies and ensure the well-being of the youngest members of our society.
MBBS, DNB in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Bangalore. Fellowship in Radiology, Fellowship in Infertility treatment, Senior Resident at St. John’s Hospital, Consultant(OBG) at Apollo Cradle, Consultant (OBG) at Aishwarya Infertility Hospital, IVF Consultant - Ayushman Hospital ( Presently )
