TRENTON – A measure sponsored by Senator Fred H. Madden that would designate May of 2006 as “Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Month” was unanimously approved today by the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.
“Complications due to premature birth is the leading cause of death during the first month of an infant’s life,” said Senator Madden, D-Camden and Gloucester, who is a member of the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens panel. “It can also contribute to physical and developmental disabilities, including cerebral palsy and chronic lung disease. By dedicating the month of May to help promote the importance of prenatal care to the health and development of mothers and babies, we would be helping to save lives.”
Senator Madden’s measure, SR-12, would declare May of 2006 as “Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Month,” here in New Jersey. The resolution would work to help raise public awareness about premature birth by promoting the importance of educating expectant mothers, while stressing the need for increased funding for research, community service grants and educational programs.
“More than 470,000 babies are born prematurely each year in the United States. More education and awareness is needed to help ensure that mothers receive the best possible prenatal care, and that their children are given every opportunity to grow and thrive,” Senator Madden said.
This measure now awaits a vote by the full Senate.
