MEDFORD, Ore. — Oregon is one of only four states to receive an A on the March of Dimes Premature Birth Report Card.
The number of children born premature dropped from 9.9 in 2010 to 9.1 in 2011. Locally, Providence Medford Medical Center also saw a big drop from 13.1 to 5.1.
Doctors say a big reason for Oregon’s low premature birth rate is the push the state has made in decreasing elective pre-term birth, which are often done for social reasons. Doctors say children born after 39 weeks are healthier at less risk for breathing and feeding difficulties as well.
