Question: Why are you studying for preterm birth prediction has it affected you? Is it more a problem in Africa than the UK?

Emmanuel Amabebe answered on 27 Jun 2013:

Preterm birth has not affected me personally but its a major problem in Africa as well as the western world (UK inclusive). For instance, it is estimated that UK health service spends about £42-74 million each year on problems associated with preterm birth , while the US spends about $13 billion for premature neonatal care alone. If we could predict correctly the likelihood of pregnant women delivering prematurely or having premature babies, then we can prevent preterm birth or in cases where we cannot prevent it, we will make adequate preparation to receive and medically care for the premature baby. This will improve pregnancy outcomes (safe mother, safe baby), reduce the morbidity and mortality rates and reduce the amount of money spent on this health problem.