Infant deaths - United States, 2005-2008

Infant mortality rates are associated with maternal health, quality of and access to medical care, socioeconomic conditions, and public health practices, which makes infant mortality an increasingly important public health concern. After large declines throughout the twentieth century, the U.S. infant mortality rate did not decline significantly during 2000-2005. Analysis of 2000-2004 infant mortality in the United States indicated considerable disparities by race and Hispanic origin. Race and ethnic disparities in U.S. infant mortality have been apparent since vital statistics data began to be collected more than 100 years ago. These disparities have persisted over time, and research indicates that not all groups have benefited equally from social and medical advances.