The global theme for World Prematurity Day 2025
“Give preterm babies a strong start for a brighter future,”
This year’s World Prematurity Day slogan, “Give preterm babies a strong start for a brighter future,” highlights the vital importance of investing in the health and well-being of preterm babies from the very beginning. Giving every baby the best possible start in life is not only a moral imperative - it is also a forward-looking investment in stronger, more resilient societies.
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World Prematurity Day Is Officially Incorporated into WHO Calendar
The World Health Assembly has officially designated November 17 as World Prematurity Day! The recent WHO endorsement is a major step forward - calling on governments around the world to prioritize preterm birth in their national health agendas. This recognition strengthens the global call to action and gives even greater visibility to the urgent need to improve care and outcomes for preterm babies and their families. It marks an important milestone for the community, affirming that the health of preterm infants is not a niche issue but a global priority that requires coordinated attention, resources, and long-term commitment.
This year’s World Prematurity Day slogan, inspired by WHO’s World Health Day theme “Healthy beginnings, hopeful futures”, underscores that the first days and months of life set the foundation for lifelong health, development, and potential. By focusing on early interventions, family-centered care, and equitable access to health services, we can ensure that preterm babies not only survive but thrive - creating brighter futures for children, families, and communities worldwide.
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Make World Prematurity Day November 17th the day of change!
Everyone is warmly invited to join this day with activities or events: parent organisations, hospitals, non-profit organisations, healthcare professionals, societies, companies, politicians, media, and individuals. No matter how much time, money or manpower you are able to spare – even with simple things you can make a difference! The typical socks line and purple lightings have become symbols of World Prematurity Day. The purple colour in the visual identity stands for sensitivity and exceptionality.
Support NEC UK by Sponsoring a Mini NICU Parent Hygiene Pack launching in line with World Prematurity Awareness Month.
You talked, We listened. We are now providing mini hygiene care packs to units across the UK to be given to any parents in need.
For Just £5 you can sponsor a NICU Mini Parent Hygiene Pack
NICU Parents are often admitted to hospital at short notice. This means that some come ill-equipped for their stay without even basic hygiene essentials, at what is often a confusing and difficult time. The NICU experience comes with a wide range of emotions and can be quite overwhelming, especially if its unexpected.
Our NICU Mini Parent Hygiene Pack comes with a range of Basic Self-Care Toiletry items:
Toothbrush & toothpaste
Shampoo & conditioner
Soap
Flannel, hair bobble & comb
Sanitary towels & Breast pads
Hand & skin lotion
Tissues & Lip balm
Nappy & Nipple Cream
You can find further campaigning materials for World Prematurity Day 2025 like logo badges, social media graphics and banners – also available in several languages – and a social media toolkit for your World Prematurity Day Campaign over on the EFCNI resources toolbox page.
