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Updated: Jul 26, 2026
13:13
Biochemical Measurement of Neonatal Hypoxia
Published on: August 24, 2011
Infant mortality statistics from the 1998 period linked birth/infant death data set
Summary
Infant mortality in 1998 was lowest for infants of Cuban mothers and highest for black mothers. Key factors influencing infant mortality included lack of prenatal care, teenage mothers, and low birthweight, with significant racial disparities in causes like Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
Area of Science:
- Demography
- Public Health
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Infant mortality remains a critical public health indicator, reflecting socioeconomic and healthcare disparities.
- Understanding variations in infant mortality rates (IMRs) across different demographic groups is essential for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present 1998 infant mortality statistics using the linked birth/infant death data set.
- To analyze infant mortality by maternal and infant characteristics, including race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic factors.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive statistical tabulations were employed.
- Data were analyzed from the 1998 linked birth/infant death data set.
Main Results:
- Infant mortality rates varied significantly by race and Hispanic origin, with the lowest rates among infants of Cuban mothers (3.6/1,000) and the highest among black mothers (13.8/1,000).
- Risk factors included lack of prenatal care, teenage mothers, lower maternal education, unmarried status, and smoking during pregnancy.
- Low birthweight infants accounted for 65% of all infant deaths, and leading causes included congenital anomalies, disorders relating to short gestation/low birthweight, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
- Racial disparities were evident in cause-specific mortality rates, such as higher low birthweight-related mortality for black infants and higher SIDS rates for American Indian infants compared to other groups.
Conclusions:
- Significant disparities in infant mortality exist across racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups in the U.S.
- Addressing risk factors like low birthweight and improving access to prenatal care are crucial for reducing infant mortality.
- Targeted public health strategies are needed to mitigate racial and ethnic disparities in infant death causes.
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