|
|
Dear friends and supporters of EFCNI,
Over the past 17 years, we have advocated tirelessly across Europe to improve care for preterm and sick newborns and their families. Today, recognizing that challenges in neonatal health transcend borders, we are proud to expand our mission globally. Our journey toward becoming a global advocate is rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and a deep commitment to equity. By connecting healthcare professionals, policymakers, and families internationally, we can dismantle systemic barriers, drive innovation, and ensure that the highest quality care reaches every baby – no matter where, when, or how they are born. I invite each of you to join us on this exciting journey. Together, we can create a future where quality neonatal care knows no borders.
Thank you for your unwavering support.
Silke Mader and the EFCNI team
|
|
© GFCNI
|
GFCNI LAUNCH
Expanding Horizons: A Global Transformation in Newborn Care
Today marks a pivotal milestone in our mission to advance neonatal health. The Global Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (GFCNI) emerges from our longstanding legacy to embrace a broader, global vision – uniting healthcare professionals, patient advocates, and families across continents in our commitment to those infants born too soon, too small, and/or too sick. While our practices and partnerships remain steadfast, this new identity reflects our deeper dedication to supporting vulnerable newborns. It is both a strategic evolution and a heartfelt pledge to ensure that every child born receives the right care, at the right time, in the right place.
|
|
© GFCNI
|
NEW VISION, NEW LOOK, NEW CHANNELS
GFCNI on Instagram: Fresh Start, Same Heart
As we launch the Global Foundation for the Care of Newborn Infants (GFCNI), we are also reintroducing ourselves on Instagram – with a fresh, global perspective. Discover behind-the-scenes stories, inspiring voices, and real-world impact from across our global community. Follow us to stay up to date on innovations in newborn care, advocacy efforts, and the people behind the mission. And don’t forget to check out our new GFCNI Facebook page, too!
|
|
© MCA Scientific Events
|
FROM EVIDENCE-BASED RESEARCH TO SCIENTIFIC INNOVATIONS
Get Ready for jENS 2025 in Belgrade
Join us at the 6th Congress of joint European Neonatal Societies (jENS), hosted in collaboration with the European Society for Paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPR) and the Union of European Neonatal and Perinatal Societies (UENPS), in Belgrade, Serbia, from October 21-25, 2025. Connect with over 2,000 neonatal professionals as we explore cutting-edge topics in neurology, cardiac physiology, perinatal practice, and more. Don’t miss GFCNI’s pre-congress course on skin-to-skin care and breastfeeding support in NICUs, led by Chairwoman Silke Mader and Medical Director Professor Helmut Hummler. GFCNI will also chair and contribute to key sessions on preterm infant nutrition, parent involvement, discharge planning, pain management, patient safety, and – reflecting our global outlook – a dedicated session on maternal and newborn health worldwide. Join the conversation and help shape the future of neonatal care. We look forward to welcoming you in Belgrade!
|
|
© Los Mil Días
|
GLOBAL PARTNERSHIPS
Welcoming “Los Mil Días”: New Partner Organization in Mexico
We are excited to welcome “Los Mil Días” a nonprofit organization in Mexico dedicated to supporting families with babies hospitalized in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs). Founded in 2022 by former NICU parents Daniela Helfon and Alberto Cohen, the organization provides crucial resources including emotional support, information, and care kits. “Los Mil Días” collaborates closely with hospitals to provide essential hygiene products, medications, and medical equipment. Among their impactful initiatives is offering free screenings for Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) to prevent vision loss in infants. Together, we strive to ensure that no family faces the NICU journey alone.
|
|
© AFPNC
|
GHANA’S FIRST PREMATURITY SUMMIT
Purple for Prematurity Summit Calls for Urgent Action and Collaborative Innovation
The African Foundation for Premature Babies and Neonatal Care (AFPNC), in partnership with leading health institutions, hosted Ghana’s first multi-sectoral summit on prematurity. Held in Accra, the Purple for Prematurity Summit convened experts, parents, and advocates to push for improved healthcare systems for preterm infants. National and global health leaders, including representatives from WHO and UNICEF, emphasized the need for sustained collaboration, investment, and public awareness. A unified call to action emerged, urging stronger national commitments to improve neonatal outcome across Ghana.
|
|
© ATTA Breastmilk Community
|
HUMAN MILK BANKING
Boosting Human Milk Donation: New Breast Pumps for Ugandan Mothers
Breast milk is a critical lifeline for preterm and sick infants, yet donor mothers often lack access to essential equipment for expressing milk. In response to a request from the ATTA Breastmilk Community, Prolacta Bioscience has donated five breast pumps to support mothers in Uganda. This initiative empowers mothers who wish to donate their milk and ensures that more vulnerable newborns benefit from the life-saving properties of human milk. We are pleased to see how this collaboration is strengthening community-led human milk banking efforts in Africa.
|
|
© WHO
|
WORLD HEALTH DAY 2025
Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures
Mark your calendars! Held each year on April 7, World Health Day celebrates the anniversary of the World Health Organization (WHO) and raises awareness of critical global health issues. This year’s theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures” shines a spotlight on maternal and newborn health, calling for action to ensure the survival and well-being of mothers and babies worldwide. The campaign will drive year-long efforts to improve healthcare, reduce mortality, and support families. Find out how you can help make a lasting impact.
|
|
© Fundacja Koalicja dla Wcześniaka
|
PRESTIGIOUS AWARD
Elżbieta Brzozowska Named Woman of the Health Market 2025
We are thrilled to share that Elżbieta Brzozowska, a passionate advocate and communications leader from our Polish partner organization, the Coalition for Preemies Foundation, has been honored with the prestigious “Woman of the Health Market 2025” award! Elżbieta played a pivotal role in securing a landmark change to Polish labor law – extending maternity leave by up to 15 weeks for parents of preterm and hospitalized newborns. Through tireless advocacy, she united nine national organizations, raised public awareness, and worked directly with the Ministry of Family, Labor and Social Policy to bring this reform to life. This achievement not only earned the Polish Foundation the “Primus in agendo” medal but also national recognition for Elżbieta’s compassionate leadership. Join us in celebrating this inspiring milestone – proof that dedicated advocacy can drive meaningful, lasting change. Please note that the article is in Polish.
|
|
© MCA Scientific Events
|
SIGNEC 2025
Join the Leading Conference on NEC & Neonatal Innovation
Be part of SIGNEC 2025, a highly specialized conference on Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) and Quality Improvement & Innovation in neonatal care, taking place 22–23 May 2025 in London. Hosted by the Special Interest Group NEC (SIGNEC), this two-day event brings together top experts to share the latest research, innovations, and strategies to transform neonatal outcomes. Day 1 will spotlight advancements in NEC research and clinical practice, while Day 2 focuses on global priorities, groundbreaking solutions, and quality improvement in neonatal care. Whether you are a researcher, clinician, nurse, or trainee, this is your chance to connect, collaborate, and contribute to better outcomes for the tiniest patients. Discounted rates are available for nurses, midwives, AHPs, and trainees, with lower-cost online options to ensure broad access. Don’t miss this opportunity and secure your spot today!
|
|
© Cottonbro / Pexels
|
CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE CARE
Bridging Cultural Gaps: Tailoring Antenatal Support for Underserved Women
Parents from disadvantaged or culturally diverse backgrounds often experience increased levels of perinatal distress or depression, coupled with lower engagement in mainstream healthcare services. A recent study outlines an innovative social intervention designed to improve social connections and emotional well-being among parents who lack access to conventional antenatal support networks. Through collaboration with community stakeholders, healthcare professionals developed a culturally sensitive, four-session program explicitly tailored to address the unique cultural identities and individual needs of parents during the perinatal period. This targeted approach ensures improved accessibility and responsiveness, fostering better overall health outcomes for mothers and babies.
|
|
© Pexels
|
PREGNANCY DURING PANDEMIA
Intimate Partner Violence Surged During COVID-19
Rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) during pregnancy significantly increased amid the COVID-19 pandemic, posing serious health risks for parents and their infants. A recent study analyzing more than 14,000 births identified economic hardship and housing instability as key factors that doubled the risk of IPV. Survivors showed higher rates of postpartum depression, increased cigarette smoking, and reduced engagement in postpartum care. Young, unmarried and less-educated individuals were found to be particularly vulnerable to experience IPV, and racial disparities further exacerbated these trends. The findings highlight an urgent need to strengthen support systems for populations disproportionately impacted during times of social and economic crisis.
|
|
© GEHC
|
NEONATAL HYPOTHERMIA
Bridging the Gaps: Advancing Neonatal Temperature Management
Maintaining normothermia in newborns is critical, yet neonatal hypothermia remains a persistent global challenge, with incidence rates upon NICU admission ranging from 26% to 74%. Temperature instability in preterm infants is associated with increased mortality, impaired surfactant function, increased risk of infection, and respiratory complications. Understanding the mechanisms of heat loss – evaporation, conduction, radiation, and convection – is essential for optimizing thermal management strategies. In an upcoming webinar, Dr. Lukas Mileder will explore the latest research and best practices in neonatal temperature regulation. Join this expert-led discussion on April 7 from 10–11 am CET.
|
|
© Annie Pratt / Unsplash
|
RESEARCH INSIGHTS
Overcoming Challenges in Neonatal Transport Across Sub-Saharan Africa
Safe and efficient neonatal transport is critical for ensuring newborns receive appropriate medical care. However, in Sub-Saharan Africa, transport systems often lack structure, resources, and trained personnel, leading to poor health outcomes. A recent systematic review examines existing neonatal transport practices in the region and assesses the impact of low-cost interventions. Findings reveal a heavy reliance on informal transport methods and inadequately equipped ambulances, increasing risks to vulnerable newborns. Despite its potential benefits, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) was notably absent from transport scenarios. The study underscores the urgent need for structured transport protocols, improved ambulance equipment and better coordination between referring and receiving facilities. Strengthening these areas could significantly improve neonatal survival and long-term health outcomes.
|
|
|
|
