March of Dimes: Infant mortality rate on the rise

 

Last week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released provisional data showing the largest percentage increase in infant mortality in more than two decades, revealing 20,538 infant deaths reported in 2022, an increase of 3% from the previous year. This is noteworthy as infant mortality has steadily decreased over the last several years. While infant mortality rates significantly increased overall to 5.6 per 1,000 live births, rates among American Indian/Alaskan Native and Black babies are 2.3 times higher than rates among White and Hispanic babies, underscoring the persistent disparities that continue to the widen the health equity gap.

March of Dimes President and CEO Dr. Elizabeth Cherot shares, “It’s disappointing to see such a significant increase in infant deaths after the country has witnessed a steady decline over the last 10 years. As we look ahead to the release of our 2023 March of Dimes Report Card on the state of maternal and infant health later this month, we had been encouraged by the fact that more babies were surviving in the U.S. With today's news, we're disheartened to see that we're now trending in the wrong direction.” She continued, “What's more, the data shows some of the causes of infant death are attributed to preterm birth as well as maternal complications and bacterial sepsis, which accounted for 9% and 14% of deaths respectively. March of Dimes believes maternal and infant health is fundamental to the health of our society and calls on all those affected and concerned by this crisis—including advocates and corporate partners—to join us to ensure every mom and baby get the best possible start.” Read the full statement here.   Together, we can bridge the health equity gap, support families, and improve health outcomes for moms and babies. Sincerely, March of Dimes P.S. On November 16, we’ll release our 2023 March of Dimes Report Card for more information about the state of maternal and infant health at www.marchofdimes.org/report-card.       DONATE NOW                        March of Dimes 1550 Crystal Dr., Ste. 1300 Arlington, VA 22202