Tiny babies, big cost.

• Position: STATESTATS - Brief article

Too many babies are being born too early. The percentage of babies born premature (before 37 complete weeks gestation) has increased nationwide by more than 15 percent between 1995 and 2005, to a high of 12.7 percent.

These babies face a higher risk of respiratory problems, bleeding in the brain, and heart and intestinal troubles. Lasting health problems can include cerebral palsy, mental retardation, vision and hearing loss, social and emotional problems, and learning difficulties.

For babies born in 2005, Medicaid will spend about $6.4 billion in their first seven years of life for health care.

YOU ARE MORE LIKELY TO HAVE A PREMATURE BABY IF YOU:

* Have no health insurance

* Receive no prenatal care

* Have diabetes or hypertension

* Are overweight

* Smoke

* Eat poorly

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