March of Dimes

March of Dimes is a United States-based nonprofit organization that works to improve the health of mothers and babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. The organization was founded in 1938 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, initially to combat polio. It was originally known as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis. The name "March of Dimes" was coined by Eddie Cantor, a popular American entertainer of the time, as a play on the contemporary newsreel series "The March of Time". He urged listeners to send dimes to the president to help fund polio research, leading to an overwhelming public response.

History

The March of Dimes was instrumental in funding the development of two polio vaccines, one developed by Dr. Jonas Salk in 1955 and another by Dr. Albert Sabin which was licensed in 1962. Following the virtual elimination of polio in the United States, the organization shifted its focus in 1958 to preventing birth defects and infant mortality.

Mission and Activities

The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. The organization funds research, leads programs, provides education, and advocates for policies that support the health of mothers and babies. Key initiatives include research on genetic causes of birth defects, improvements in prenatal care, and efforts to reduce the rates of premature births. The March of Dimes also provides resources and support for families affected by premature birth or birth defects.

Programs and Initiatives

• Prematurity Research Centers: These centers are collaborative efforts to identify the causes of premature birth and ways to prevent it.
• NICU Family Support: This program provides information and comfort to families during their baby's stay in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
• Perinatal Quality Improvement Programs: These programs work with hospitals and healthcare professionals to improve the quality of care for mothers and babies.

Impact

The March of Dimes has played a significant role in reducing the incidence of polio in the United States and has contributed to advances in the care and treatment of premature infants and babies born with birth defects. The organization's advocacy efforts have also led to significant policy changes, including the expansion of newborn screening programs and increased funding for maternal and infant health research.

Controversies and Criticism

Like many large organizations, the March of Dimes has faced criticism, including concerns about the allocation of funds and the effectiveness of certain interventions. However, it continues to be a leading organization in the field of maternal and infant health.

See Also

• Birth defect
• Premature birth
• Infant mortality
• Polio vaccine
• Neonatal intensive care unit