“National Newborn Week” and Prematurity Day observed in DMCH

Ludhiana, November 19, 2022: Parents and guardians of new born babies were counselled on the occasion of National Newborn Week and Prematurity Day in the Pediatrics OPD. The theme of this day is “Home care of newborn in urban areas”. Prematurity day is celebrated every year in the country on 17th November. Preterm births and its complications are one of the largest contributions in infant death in India. Every year an estimated 15 billion babies are born preterm and the number is rising rapidly.
Present on the occasion were Dr Puneet A Pooni, Head, Dept of Pediatrics, Dr Kamal Arora, Professor (neonatology), Pediatrics, Dr Karambir Gill, Assistant Professor, Pediatrics and Dr Priyanka Arora, Associate Professor, Ophthalmology.
Prem Kumar Gupta, Secretary, DMCH Managing Society, in his message said that DMCH has state of the art facilities for all neonatal concerns.
Dr Puneet Pooni, while addressing the gathering, sensitized the mothers about ways to stimulate breast feeding for premature babies. She also talked about the advantages and disadvantages of bottle feeding and formula milk.
Dr Kamal Arora said preterm births and its complications are one of the largest contributions in infant deaths in India. 75% of newborn deaths can be prevented with known, effective health measures provided at birth and during the first week of life.  He also stressed on the immunization for the newborn babies especially for premature babies.
Dr Priyanka Arora talked about ROP in premature babies. She said it is crucial for premature babies to get an eye exam within 3 to 4 weeks of birth to avoid the problem of ROP on the underdeveloped eyes as once ROP affects the eye it could lead to major vision loss.
Dr Karambir Gill talked about the effects of the mother's mental health on her breast milk and the baby’s health. It is important for the breastfeeding mother to be stress free and happy so that the baby can be healthy and happy.
Dr Jasmine, fellow, Neonatology preached about the benefits of breast milk and said that it is an emotional connection between the mother and her child. Sister Karamjit Kaur, Lactation Counsellor addressed to personal concerns of the new mother. DMCH has round the clock lactation counsellor facility available.