Problems persist for kids born premature

[dricia]

WHEN Indiana Harley gave birth to Jackson 10 weeks early, she had no idea the complications associated with his premature arrival would continue.

Jackson was born in June last year when Ms Harley was 30 weeks pregnant — but her water broke six weeks earlier.

“It does not stop when you leave the hospital,” the Beeliar mother said.

“We have had seven admissions since he was discharged and he has been diagnosed with chronic lung disease and bronchopulmonary dysplasia.”

Ms Harley, who has a healthy four-year-old daughter, said her water broke so early that it led to issues with her son’s lungs.

“Not every premature baby comes out sick,” she said.

“After my water broke there was no fluid around him, hence his lung disease.”

More than one in 10 Australian babies are born prematurely but the percentage is increasing, medical experts say.

“Premature birth is on the rise — now about 8 per cent of births compared with 6 per cent in the past,” Latrobe Regional Hospital chief medical officer Simon Fraser said.

Dr Fraser said increasing maternal age, more multiple pregnancies with assisted reproduction, higher rates of maternal diabetes and obesity were among the factors linked to increased early births.

Ms Harley and Jackson will take part in Sunday’s Walk for Prems, which raises funds for Life’s Little Treasure Foundation.

The not-for-profit group helps parents of premature babies with care packages and support.

“They helped me,” Ms Harley said. “I want other parents of premature babies to have the same support.”

Walk for Prems is held around the nation. Perth’s event is at Sir James Mitchell Park on Sunday.