“The March of Dimes is deeply disappointed and concerned about the loss of this important bill which is supported by a strong bipartisan majority in Congress. Without the necessary funding, initiatives and programs central to improving the health of women, infants, and children are at risk. Of particular interest to the March of Dimes is the National Children's Study that would have received funding through this bill. The NCS is a long overdue research initiative that will generate much needed information on the underlying causes of many pediatric diseases and conditions, including a better understanding of the factors associated with the growing problem of premature birth. It is essential that this study be allowed to go forward.
“The bill also contains funding for maternal and child health programs and services – including, for example, newborn screening, folic acid education, and birth defects surveillance – each of which are vitally important to the long term future of the nation's children and families. All of us at the March of Dimes stand ready to work with President Bush and Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle to develop an appropriations bill that can be signed into law. ”
The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defect, premature birth, and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy and in 2003 launched a multi-year campaign to address the increasing rate of premature birth. For more information, visit the March of Dimes Web site at marchofdimes.com or its Spanish Web site at nacersano.org.
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