A life-saving incubator, invented by a university graduate to specifically support premature babies, has been used in a hospital for the first time during a clinical trial.
The “mOm” incubator is the creation of James Roberts, a Loughborough University graduate who hopes to improve neonatal care in the UK and abroad.
The purpose of an incubator is to provide consistent warmth to a premature baby. The mOm does this, but it is cheaper and more compact than existing incubators on the market.
A stark statistic highlights that 75 per cent of premature babies that die every year could have survived, if only they had access to an incubator. This shows a clear need across the world for machines at a lower cost.
Mr. Roberts said: “Sustaining a child’s life in our incubator for the first time has been a humbling experience and a monumental step in transforming this dream into a practical reality.
“It is unacceptable that one million premature babies die each year, when most of these deaths can be easily prevented.
“An idea that was once scribbled down on paper now has the potential to impact many lives globally.”
Mr. Roberts’ former teachers are proud of his achievement. Professor Cees de Bont, dean at Loughborough University, said: “We are delighted to see James and the mOm incubator hit such an important milestone.
“At the time of his degree show it was clear he had developed something that one day would save lives.”
SPUC comment
A SPUC spokesperson said: “With advances in modern technology, premature babies can receive the proper care and support that they need to survive and thrive.
“Cheaper incubators, such as the mOm, will help more premature babies around the world.
“We must give human life every chance.”
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