A bilirubinometer is a critical device that tests bilirubin levels (which indicate why the skin and eyes are yellow, a condition known as jaundice) in newborns.

Preterm birth remains the leading cause of death for children under five, and many who survive face lifelong disabilities due to inadequate healthcare.

Bilirubin levels in newborns are critical indicators of health, particularly for preterm infants, who are at a higher risk of jaundice.

Speaking at an event to commemorate this year’s World Prematurity Day, with the theme “Breaking Barriers, Access to Quality Everywhere,” Rev. Sister Lydia Nyarko Yeboah emphasized the significance of timely diagnoses and treatment for these vulnerable babies.

According to her, the provision of a bilirubinometer would enable healthcare providers at St. Joseph Catholic Hospital to provide immediate and accurate assessments, ensuring that infants receive the necessary treatment without delays.

She noted that a bilirubinometer is essential for monitoring jaundice, a common condition in preterm infants that, if left untreated, can lead to serious health issues.

Rev. Sister Lydia highlighted the hospital’s commitment to improving neonatal care.

She believes that every child deserves the best start in life, and with the right tools, the facility can enhance its services and save lives.

During the event, several mothers with preterm babies shared their personal experiences, highlighting the emotional and physical toll of caring for their fragile infants.

The mothers recounted their harrowing journeys, stating they sometimes felt helpless watching their babies struggle. They believe that with access to better tools, the facility will save more babies with such conditions.

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Dr. Ebenezer Forson emphasized the importance of providing necessary care to preterm babies, highlighting that they require the same level of care as full-term babies.

He made the call at an event to mark this year’s World Prematurity Day. It is marked annually on November 17 to raise global awareness and to celebrate the lives of preterm infants.

He urged parents not to neglect their preterm infants and to offer them the care they deserve.

Dr. Forson made these remarks during the commemoration of World Prematurity Day at St. Joseph Catholic Hospital in Nkwanta South, where efforts were made to create awareness and celebrate the lives of preterm infants.

In his advice to mothers, Dr. Forson stressed the importance of breastfeeding and following medical instructions provided by healthcare professionals and nurses to prevent neonatal deaths.

Rev. Sister Lydia Nyarko-Yeboah, in charge of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Nkwanta St Joseph Catholic Hospital, revealed that the facility has recorded over 90 cases of premature births from 2022 to September 2023.

She attributed this success to the well-equipped facilities available at the hospital, emphasizing the commitment of the facility to providing quality service to mothers who have premature babies.

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