Exploring the Decline in the Singleton Preterm Birth Rate in the United States, 2019-2020

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Maternal and Child Health

Background:

• Preterm birth (before 37 weeks gestation) is a major cause of infant mortality and long-term childhood health issues globally.
• The US preterm birth rate increased from 2014 to 2019, then saw a slight decrease by 2020.
• Multiple births are more likely to result in preterm delivery, influencing overall rates.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify factors contributing to the 2019-2020 decline in preterm birth rates.
• To analyze trends in preterm birth rates from 2014 to 2020, focusing on singleton births.
• To examine changes in preterm birth rates between 2019 and 2020 by maternal demographics and location.

Main Methods:

• Analysis limited to singleton births to isolate factors affecting preterm birth rates.
• Description of preterm birth rate trends from 2014 to 2020.
• Examination of changes in rates between 2019 and 2020 based on maternal race/Hispanic origin, age, and state.

Main Results:

• The overall preterm birth rate in the US experienced a 1% decline between 2019 and 2020.
• Trends and demographic variations in singleton preterm birth rates from 2014-2020 are detailed.
• Specific changes in preterm birth rates by maternal characteristics and state are presented.

Conclusions:

• The 2019-2020 decline in preterm birth rates, particularly among singletons, warrants further investigation into contributing factors.
• Understanding demographic and geographic variations is crucial for targeted public health interventions.
• Continued monitoring of preterm birth trends is essential for improving infant and child outcomes.