Saving Babies Earlier

The British Medical Journal has published new guidelines in treating very premature infants.  In the past, hospitals in the United Kingdom required a baby be at least twenty-three weeks along in the pregnancy.  They are rolling that back by one week, which is huge for parents of these extreme preemies.  The reason for the change is simple.  Technology is advancing that enables them to save younger babies.  Nearly forty percent can be saved with medical treatment when born at twenty-two weeks.  It was noted that “clinicians are increasingly willing” to provide care for these tiny babies.  I would guess it breaks the hearts of doctors and nurses forced to stand by and do nothing while the parents desperately beg for help.  This is an advancement for humanity.