Declines In Pediatric Mortality Fall Short For Rural US Children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Public Health
• Rural Health Disparities
• Mortality Statistics

Background:

• US pediatric mortality rates have decreased since 1999.
• Significant racial and ethnic disparities persist, with higher rates among non-Hispanic black and American Indian/Alaska Native children.
• Previous research indicates potential disparities in rural pediatric health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine pediatric mortality trends in rural US populations from 1999 to 2017.
• To compare rural pediatric mortality declines with national trends.
• To identify specific risks for rural children, particularly minority groups.

Main Methods:

• Utilized mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
• Analyzed data for the period 1999–2017.
• Stratified analysis by geographic location (rural vs. urban) and demographic factors.

Main Results:

• Rural children consistently experienced higher mortality rates than urban children throughout the study period.
• While national rates declined, rural pediatric mortality trends did not fully parallel these national improvements.
• Non-Hispanic black infants and American Indian/Alaska Native children in rural areas were identified as particularly vulnerable populations.

Conclusions:

• Persistent higher mortality rates in rural children underscore ongoing health disparities.
• Specific minority groups, including non-Hispanic black infants and American Indian/Alaska Native children, face elevated risks in rural settings.
• Recommendations include enhanced surveillance of rural child health and targeted policies addressing unintentional injury and suicide.