Pune: In response to India’s escalating rates of preterm births, neonatal and maternal health experts gathered in Pune at the FOGSI Vice President International Conference, where they urged for enhanced neonatal infrastructure, expanded human resources, and stronger collaborations between pediatricians and obstetricians.
This two-day event, organized by the Pune Obstetric and Gynecological Society (POGS), the Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India (FOGSI), and Bharati Vidyapeeth University Medical College’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, focused on addressing the theme "Towards Zero Preterm Births in India."
The conference, which featured workshops, scientific sessions, and expert presentations, also highlighted the theme "Born Too Soon," bringing attention to the risks and long-term consequences associated with preterm births.
The event was attended by key figures, including Chief Guest Dr. Jaydeep Tank, President of FOGSI; Guest of Honour Dr. Vasant Khalatkar, President-Elect of the Indian Academy of Pediatrics; and other notable professionals such as Dr. Sunita Tandulwadkar, Dr. Aarti Nimkar, Dr. Meenakshi Deshpande, Dr. Girija Wagh, and Dr. Vaishali Chavan.
In his address, Dr. Tank stressed that preterm births often lead to lifelong challenges for affected children, though advancements in neonatal care have reduced these risks.
"A significant number of children still suffer due to insufficient neonatal care. To address this, we need to invest in both infrastructure and skilled human resources to ensure all newborns in need receive proper care," said Dr. Tank.
"Our focus includes prevention, early prediction, and collaboration with pediatricians to establish high-quality neonatal services, along with promoting kangaroo mother care.”
Dr. Tank also underscored the role of big data and artificial intelligence, emphasizing the potential of these technologies in analyzing risk factors for preterm birth and identifying predictive trends for better prevention.
Guest of Honour Dr. Vasant Khalatkar echoed Dr. Tank’s views, noting that preterm births remain a critical challenge with lasting impacts. He advocated for a robust partnership between obstetricians and pediatricians to establish a "circle of care" for continuous monitoring and treatment.
The conference also featured the release of a book on preterm labor by Dr. Girija Wagh and a commemorative souvenir edited by Dr. Anagha Pai Raiturkar. Recognized for their contributions to neonatal and maternal health, Professor Dr. Kishore Kumar, Dr. Chitra Prasad, Dr. Mark Evans, and Dr. Meenu Agarwal were honored during the event.
Dr. Uma Wankhede received an award for her winning entry in the reel-making competition.
Dr. Girija Wagh remarked that October, being dedicated to awareness on preterm births, was the ideal time for holding the conference. Dr. Vaishali Chavan, the event's Organizing Secretary, expressed gratitude to all participants and contributors in her vote of thanks.