Disease burden and rehabilitation needs of preterm newborns in China from 1990 to 2021: trend analysis, factor decomposition, attributable risk factors, and projections toward 2035

While preterm birth burden in China has decreased since 1990, a significant burden persists, disproportionately affecting males. Low birth weight and short gestation are key modifiable risks. Projected trends underscore the need for enhanced public health interventions targeting identified risk factors and strengthening continuum-of-care rehabilitation services to further reduce burden and improve outcomes.