ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION Premature births are one of the greatest challenges of perinatal care, and are an important risk factor for neurological impairment and disability. Premature birth constitutes the most frequent cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. About 70% of deaths that occur during the perinatal period among neonates without obvious congenital anomalies can be attributed to preterm birth. It not only affects the infant and the family, that must remain in the hospital for several months, but it is also a significant health-care system cost.
