Another cartoon points out different causes for "Small-For-Date-Babies" or causes of intrauterine growth failure. Note in the cartoon that other causes were expected. Most importantly, smoking and alcohol were not listed. At that time we were aware of the dangers, but not yet convinced of the serious disasters associated with the use of tobacco and alcohol. Most of my academic career has been spent in Kentucky where the manufacture of alcohol and cigarettes are leading industries. Alcohol has been shown to increase birth defects and the fetal alcohol syndrome. Also, note that the range of gestational ages has critical points for infants under 28 Weeks (immaturity) and over 42 weeks gestation (postmaturity). In 1958 few infants lived under 28 weeks gestation and those over 42 weeks gestation were at high risk for problems. This concept of small-for-date-babies took away much of the importance of the definition of prematurity for all infants under 2,500 grams and eventually led to the terms low birth weight under 2,500 grams, very low birth weight under 1,500 grams and very, very low birth weight infants under 1,000 grams. Today, even infants under 500 grams and down to 22 weeks gestation are surviving. We must pay special attention to the group under 1,000 grams for quality of life.
During my life I have used poetry to express my deepest feelings and my most light-hearted thoughts. Poetry has leveled the highest peaks and the lowest valleys of my life. Poetry has served to express my ideas and philosophy on quality of life. I have discerned from my reading about Japan that you appreciate poetry, literature, music, art, theater and sports of many types, which I also enjoy, and I will use some poetry related to the specific areas of discussion.
Why have you asked me here? Was it because of "The Children's Bill of Rights?" (Slide) There was absolutely no way for me to comprehend the future impact of '"The Children's Bill of Rights" when it was written in 1968. This document includes many items related to quality of life for children.
