Premature birth and pregnancy complications
Each year, around 55,000 babies in the UK are born preterm and sadly more than 1,000 babies die as a result of being born too soon.
And for those that do survive being born too soon, they have an increased risk of cerebral palsy, visual impairment, hearing loss and learning difficulties.
Action Medical Research is a community of passionate individuals who are committed to fighting for children’s lives. We fight for some of the toughest fights our children face.
We know through medical research we can stop the devastation caused by premature birth.
Join our fight to help stop babies being born too soon.
Together we will find the answers.
Understanding how labour starts to uncover new ways to prevent spontaneous preterm birth
Dr Victoria Male of Imperial College London is investigating the role of a newly identified type of immune cell in triggering the onset of labour. Her findings will inform future research aiming to prevent spontaneous preterm birth – which could ultimately lead to happier outcomes for many babies and their families.
Current research
Millie and Scarlett's story
Premature birth
Millie, who was born at just 28 weeks, is also a loving child with a startlingly mature awareness of her twin sister Scarlett, who tragically died aged just one month.
Previous research
Help fund future breakthroughs
Ways to support our work
Make a Donation
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Give in your will
Your gift could help find the answers that will change the world for future generations of children.
Volunteer
Volunteers are the heart of everything we do. Your support in key roles can make a big impact, find out how you can get involved.