Prematurity Awareness Day

Did you know that November 17 is World Prematurity Awareness Day?

About 8% of babies born in Canada arrive too soon. The rate of premature births has increased by 23 % since the beginning of the 90s.1

Premature infants face increased health risks.

Be a part of the solution by bringing awareness of prematurity to Canadians!

Spread the word and celebrate this special day dedicated to improving the lives of premature babies.

1. http://www.cihi.ca/cihi-ext-portal/internet/fr/document/types+of+care/hospital+care/acute+care/release_29jan09

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Oxygen for the Body

Oxygen is essential to the normal functioning of the body. Red blood cells pick up oxygen from the lungs and deliver it to tissues (and organs) throughout the body. When red blood cells are full of oxygen, the blood is a bright red colour. When the oxygen has been taken up by the tissues (and organs), the blood turns a dark bluish colour. It must then return to the lungs to load up with more oxygen.

The whole cycle is powered by an amazing pump – the heart.

The Heart and Great Vessels

The heart has four chambers: the right atrium and left atrium (together called the atria), and the more muscular right and left ventricles. In addition, there are the great vessels (arteries and veins) that carry blood to and from the heart.