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The recently released annual report by March of Dimes reveals concerning trends in maternal and infant health in the United States. Despite a slight decrease, the preterm birth rate in 2022 remained high at 10.4%, earning the nation a D+ grade. Alarmingly, this rate has only decreased by 1% since 2021, which marked the highest rate in over a decade. The report emphasizes that preterm births are the leading cause of infant deaths in the country. Disturbingly, the national preterm birth rate, which peaked at 12.8% in 2006, fell to 9.8% in 2012 but has since climbed back to 10.4% in 2022.
Geographical disparities are evident, with cities in the South, such as Birmingham and New Orleans, reporting the highest rates. Additionally, the report highlights racial disparities, noting that infants born to Black mothers are 1.5 times more likely to be born preterm. Black infants also face higher mortality rates, underlining the urgent need for targeted interventions. Maternal deaths in the U.S. have nearly doubled since 2018, reaching 32.9 deaths per 100,000 people in 2021. To address these issues, March of Dimes calls for state actions, including extended Medicaid benefits, paid family leave, and increased support for doula care. The report underscores the need for a comprehensive approach, emphasizing the importance of addressing root causes and social determinants of health to improve maternal and infant outcomes.
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