The World Health Organization (WHO) is commemorating its first official World Prematurity Day by launching a global clinical practice guide for Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), a simple yet lifesaving method that substantially improves survival rates for preterm and low birth weight babies. Each year, about 15 million babies are born prematurely, with complications from preterm birth being the leading cause of death among children under five. In low-income countries, most extremely preterm babies die within days, while survival rates in high-income countries are significantly higher.
KMC, which combines prolonged skin-to-skin contact with breast-milk feeding, has proven highly effective in improving outcomes for small and preterm newborns. Evidence shows it can reduce newborn deaths by more than 30%, decrease hypothermia by nearly 70%, lower severe infections by 15%, and promote better weight gain and long-term cognitive development. WHO emphasizes that KMC is not only a medical intervention but also an approach that empowers mothers and families, transforming newborn care.
The new WHO guide provides detailed, adaptable instructions for health workers, facility managers, and caregivers on initiating, maintaining, and monitoring KMC. It recommends that all preterm or low birth weight newborns receive KMC immediately after birth, except in cases where urgent medical attention is required due to compromised breathing, blood pressure, or circulation. While mothers are the primary providers, fathers and other family members can also participate, ensuring continued support when the mother is unavailable. KMC can be applied across all levels of health facilities—from delivery rooms to intensive care units—and can continue at home after discharge.
The guide also addresses practical considerations, including securing the baby in the KMC position using cloth wraps, elastic binders, or specially designed garments. It emphasizes the importance of creating supportive facility environments, staff training, and family-friendly policies, including rooming-in practices that allow mothers to stay with their babies.
On this World Prematurity Day, with the theme “A strong start for a hopeful future,” WHO calls on governments, health systems, and partners to prioritize quality care for preterm and low birth weight babies. Dedicated neonatal wards, trained staff, round-the-clock care, and access to essential equipment and medications like antibiotics are essential to reduce preventable deaths. Many preterm babies face heightened risks due to underdeveloped lungs, brains, immune systems, and temperature regulation, making specialized care critical. WHO underscores that no newborn should die from preventable causes and urges investment in comprehensive care for small and sick newborns alongside quality maternity services to prevent preterm births.
