Pre-term Birth

Non-invasive diagnostic test to predict pre-term birth: The biomarkers have been identified, and proof-of-concept was demonstrated. Similar to the IAI test, preclinical validation and patient enrollment for the clinical study are in progress. The additional healthcare costs from pre-term deliveries for hospitals in the U.S. total $11.9 billion (March of Dimes, 2003). Authorities such as the March of Dimes Foundation consider prematurity as one of the highest priority complications, with all pregnancies potentially at risk (see March of Dimes). Thus, the U.S. market is approximately 3.7 million live births.