Infant mortality in the United States

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Socioeconomic Determinants of Health
• Perinatal Epidemiology

Background:

• The United States exhibits a high infant mortality rate (IMR) compared to other developed nations.
• Significant racial disparities exist in US IMR, with Black infants experiencing more than double the mortality rate of White infants.
• High preterm birth rates and elevated IMR among term infants contribute to the overall US IMR and racial disparities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the factors contributing to the high infant mortality rate (IMR) and racial disparities in the United States.
• To investigate the role of socioeconomic status and healthcare access in US infant mortality.
• To identify potential interventions for reducing infant mortality and racial inequities.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of infant mortality rates (IMR) across racial groups in the US.
• Examination of preterm birth rates and IMR among term infants.
• Review of socioeconomic factors, healthcare access, and social expenditures in relation to health outcomes.

Main Results:

• The US IMR in 2013 was 6.0 per 1000 live births, ranking poorly among developed countries.
• The IMR for Black infants was 11.11 per 1000 live births, compared to 5.06 for White infants.
• Disadvantaged socioeconomic status disproportionately affects health determinants, impacting the poor most significantly.

Conclusions:

• Factors beyond healthcare, particularly disadvantaged socioeconomic status, significantly contribute to the high US IMR and racial disparities.
• Improving access to quality healthcare and increasing social expenditures are crucial for reducing infant mortality and racial inequities.
• Addressing socioeconomic determinants is essential for improving overall public health outcomes and achieving health equity.