Preterm birth before 37 gestational weeks is a major challenge in perinatal health care. Over the past 30 years, the incidence of preterm birth in most developed countries has been about 7-10 % of live births. The incidence of preterm birth in the United States exceeds 12% of all births, with rates of almost 18% in the non-Hispanic Black population. Among survivors, the prevalence of both short- and long-term morbidities, including respiratory disease, neurodevelopmental problems, and gastrointestinal disease, is estimated to be as high as 60%.

Several factors have contributed to the overall rise in the incidence of preterm birth. These factors include increased use of assisted reproduction techniques, increasing rates of multiple births, and more obstetric intervention. The diverse etiology of preterm birth makes prediction difficult. Identification of women at risk of preterm birth would be a key for its prevention. No sufficiently specific marker, however, has so far been found.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles as well as review articles that will stimulate efforts to understand the pathophysiology, gene environment interactions, primary and secondary prevention, diagnostic evaluation, and pharmacotherapy of premature birth. We are particularly interested in articles describing immunology of preterm birth and role of progesterone and progestin therapy in preterm birth.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to:

• The incidence of preterm births in developing countries
• The prevention of preterm birth
• Markers in prediction of preterm birth
• The diagnosis and treatment of premature birth