Study protocol for WHO and UNICEF estimates of global, regional, and national preterm birth rates for 2010 to 2019

Abstract

Background Preterm birth is a leading cause of death among children under five years. Previous estimates indicated global preterm birth rate of 10.6% (14.8 million neonates) in 2014. We aim to update preterm birth estimates at global, regional, and national levels for the period 2010 to 2019. Methods Preterm birth is defined as a live birth occurring before 37 completed gestational weeks, or Discussion Accurate measurement of preterm birth is challenging in many countries given incomplete or unavailable data from national administrative sources, compounded by limited gestational age assessment during pregnancy to define preterm birth. Up-to-date modelled estimates will be an important resource to measure the global burden of preterm birth and to inform policies and programs especially in settings with a high burden of neonatal mortality. Trial registration PROSPERO registration:CRD42021237861.