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Infant mortality, class, race and gender: implications for the health profession
1Department of Social Work, Behavioral & Political Sciences, Prairie View A&M University of Texas, USA.
Insights
The racial disparity in infant mortality between white and African American infants persists and is worsening. This review examines vulnerabilities and social work interventions to address this public health crisis.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Social Work
- Health Disparities
Background:
- The racial gap in infant mortality between white and African American populations is widening.
- This persistent disparity is not projected to decrease soon.
- Existing literature highlights the interconnectedness of class, race, and gender vulnerabilities impacting African American infant mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review theoretical and empirical literature on factors contributing to African American infant mortality.
- To examine the constellation of class, race, and gender vulnerabilities.
- To provide an overview of prevention initiatives within social work practice.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of theoretical and empirical studies.
- Analysis of class, race, and gender vulnerabilities.
- Examination of public health and social work intervention frameworks.
Main Results:
- The disparity in infant mortality is increasing.
- Class, race, and gender significantly intersect to create vulnerabilities for African American infants.
- Social work practice can implement ethnic-sensitive approaches.
Conclusions:
- Addressing African American infant mortality requires a multi-faceted approach considering social determinants.
- Ethnic-sensitive social work practice, including empowerment and advocacy, is crucial.
- Public health and social work interventions are vital for reducing disparities.
Abstract:
The disparity in white and African American infant mortality has not only persisted but increased over time and is not expected to diminish in the near future. This article reviews the theoretical and empirical literature on the constellation of class, race, and gender vulnerabilities on African American life as manifested in infant mortality. Utilizing a public health framework, it provides an overview of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention initiatives within the social work practice domain. Ethnic-sensitive practice perspective for social workers is highlighted and includes empowerment, strengths, Africentric, and advocacy and social action.