Special issue: Preterm birth: Research, intervention and developmental outcomes

As indicated by the World Health Organization, preterm birth is a relevant public health issue, being one of the leading causes of death in children under five years of age. Its incidence has been increasing in most countries, with inequalities in terms of survival rates and negative outcomes around the world. Preterm birth is a critical event that affects not only child development, but also families and societies, particularly in the care and educational settings. The articles included in this Special Issue will add new considerations on prematurity, focusing on: (a) the effect of preterm birth on developmental outcomes from early life to adulthood, taking into account risk and protective factors; (b) the role of parenting and social environment; and (c) interventions that can promote the well-being of preterm children and their families.