DAR ES SALAAM, Jan. 16 -- PREMATURE birth is a significant public health challenge, not only in Tanzania but also across the globe. It poses major risks to both newborns and mothers, contributing to high rates of infant mortality and long-term health complications.

According to health experts, premature birth or preterm- birth is when a baby is born before completing 37 weeks of pregnancy.

The experts say since the babies arrive early and are not fully developed for life outside the womb, they require special care due to underdeveloped organs like lungs, brain and digestive system.

Based on gestational age, (pregnancy age) premature babies are grouped into four categories, extreme preterm (referring to those born before 28 weeks), very...