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Published on: January 8, 2020
Infant mortality statistics from the 2005 period linked birth/infant death data set
T J Mathews1, Marian F MacDorman
1Center for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Health Statistics, Division of Vital Statistics, Hyattsville, MD 20782, USA.
In 2005, the U.S. infant mortality rate remained stable at 6.86 per 1,000 live births. Significant disparities were observed across racial/ethnic groups, with non-Hispanic black mothers facing the highest infant mortality rates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Demography
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Infant mortality statistics provide crucial insights into population health and healthcare quality.
- The linked birth/infant death data file offers a comprehensive dataset for analyzing infant mortality trends and risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present 2005 infant mortality statistics using the linked birth/infant death data file.
- To analyze infant mortality rates by various maternal and infant characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Descriptive tabulations of data from the linked birth/infant death file.
- Calculation and interpretation of infant mortality rates, neonatal mortality rates, and postneonatal mortality rates.
Main Results:
- The U.S. infant mortality rate in 2005 was 6.86 per 1,000 live births, statistically unchanged from 2004.
- Significant racial and ethnic disparities were noted, with non-Hispanic black mothers having the highest rates (13.63) and Asian or Pacific Islander mothers the lowest (4.89).
- Preterm birth and low birthweight were strongly associated with higher infant mortality, with very preterm infants accounting for a substantial proportion of deaths.
Conclusions:
- Infant mortality rates in the U.S. remained largely unchanged in 2005, but significant disparities persist.
- Preterm birth and low birthweight are critical factors influencing infant mortality, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.
- Addressing racial and ethnic disparities in infant mortality is essential for improving overall public health outcomes.
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