Australian of the Year recognition propels significant reduction in pre-term births
A world-first Australian initiative to reduce preterm births led by Australian of the Year alum, Professor John Newnham AM, has just been published in globally-recognised leading medical journal, The Lancet. For more than two centuries, The Lancet has sought to address urgent topics in our society, initiate debate, put science into context, and influence decision makers around the world.
The groundbreaking study led by 2020 Senior Australian of the Year, Professor Newnham, has demonstrated significant achievement in the decrease in rates of potentially harmful early birth and improved pregnancy outcomes for women across the country.
Professor of Obstetrics at The University of Western Australia, and Chair and Founder of the Australian Preterm Birth Prevention Alliance, Professor Newnham launched the comprehensive preterm and early term birth prevention program in Western Australia in mid-2018, in response to rising numbers across the country of potentially harmful early birth rates before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
Following his recognition as 2020 Senior Australian of the Year for his pioneering research and positive impact in the prevention of pre-term birth, Professor Newnham had what he describes as “the most tremendous platform to promote” his work, and successfully secured additional funding to broaden implementation of his preterm birth prevention strategies across the country, collaborating with 59 hospitals.
“Overall, we have shown that using current knowledge we can lower the rate of harmful early birth by about 7-10% which is approximately 4,000 fewer cases of early birth each year across Australia, since the program was launched,” says Professor Newnham.
To hear directly from Professor Newnham about the findings and their broader impact on maternal and neonatal health, watch the video below.
Morgen Lewis, CEO of Auspire – Australia Day Council WA, reflected on the connection between the Awards and the ongoing impact of Professor Newnham’s work.
“This is a powerful example of how the Australian of the Year Awards elevate individuals whose dedication transforms lives,” said Ms Lewis. “By profiling leaders like Professor Newnham, the Awards not only honour personal excellence but also spark greater awareness, collaboration, and community action, reminding us that when we recognise and support outstanding citizens, we strengthen the very fabric of our nation.”
Since 1960, the Australian of the Year Awards have celebrated the achievements of Australians who inspire positive change, giving national visibility to those tackling some of our most pressing challenges.