According to recent observations, there is an alarming increase of birth defect risk when a baby is born pre-term. Researchers have tracked nearly 7 million babies born between 1995 and 2000 to get a better understanding about birth defects. About 8 percent of babies that are born prematurely have birth defects as compared to full term babies who are just 3 percent in rating.

The normal pregnancy lasts roughly 40 weeks and those born before 37 weeks are considered premature. Those who are born between 24 and 31 weeks are at the highest risk for birth defects. Some of the most common defects include central nervous system defects like spina bifida and heart problems.

As a suggestion, expecting mothers should avoid smoking during the period of pregnancy and watch their weight carefully. These are major causes of premature births and birth defects.

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