Expressing support for the designation of "Prematurity Awareness Month".

This resolution expresses the House of Representatives' support for the designation of "Prematurity Awareness Month" , acknowledging a significant maternal and infant health crisis in the United States. It highlights alarming disparities in birth outcomes, particularly for women and infants of color, and notes that the U.S. has some of the highest maternal mortality rates among high-income countries. With more than 370,000 babies born preterm in 2022, prematurity is identified as the leading cause of newborn death and disability, incurring substantial emotional and economic costs. The resolution emphasizes that preterm births are often preventable through investments in research, evidence-based public health programs, and efforts to address social determinants of health and structural disparities. It calls on the people of the United States, interest groups, and affected individuals to actively observe "Prematurity Awareness Month" with appropriate events and activities. Furthermore, it encourages promoting awareness and supporting programs aimed at preventing preterm births to improve maternal and infant health outcomes nationwide.