Final answer:
The survival rate for premature infants weighing less than 1500 grams is above 90 percent if they are born after 26 weeks of gestation, with the condition that they receive necessary medical care. The chance of survival increases significantly with each additional week in the womb. Factors such as IUGR, healthcare quality, and socioeconomics play a role in these statistics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Today the survival rate for premature infants weighing less than 1500 grams (which is under the classification of low birth weight) is much higher than it was in the past, thanks to advances in medical technology and neonatal care. While statistics can vary by region and the level of health care available, for babies born after 26 weeks of gestation, more than 90 percent survive given the necessary medical care. It is crucial, though, to understand the level of care required for these preterm infants, often involving advanced and intensive support, particularly for their respiratory and nervous systems which may be underdeveloped.
For babies born at 23 weeks, the chance of survival is between 20 and 35 percent, with the requirement of intensive medical care. By 25 weeks of gestation, this chance of survival increases significantly to as high as 70 percent. It is evident that every additional week in the womb greatly enhances the likelihood of survival and a healthier start to life. Factors affecting these statistics include the presence of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), the quality of healthcare, and socioeconomic conditions.