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Updated: Jun 27, 2025
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A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
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Social Determinants of Premature Birth
Nana Matoba1, Christina Kim2, Tonia Branche2
1Division of Neonatology, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego, Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, 3020 Children's Way, MC 5008, San Diego, CA 92123, USA.
Clinics in Perinatology
|May 5, 2024
Summary
Social determinants of health impact maternal and infant health. Structural racism and discrimination contribute to racial disparities in preterm birth rates among African American women.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Maternal and Infant Health
- Health Disparities Research
Background:
- Social determinants of health (SDOH) are increasingly recognized as critical factors influencing health outcomes.
- Despite advancements, significant racial disparities persist in birth outcomes, particularly preterm birth.
- Existing explanations for these disparities remain incomplete.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the social determinants of preterm birth.
- To specifically investigate the social experiences of African American women in relation to preterm birth.
- To highlight the role of structural racism and discrimination in these outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of literature on social determinants of health and preterm birth.
- Focus on qualitative and quantitative studies examining racial differences in birth outcomes.
- Analysis of the impact of lifelong exposure to racism and discrimination.
Main Results:
- Social factors, both individual and contextual, significantly shape maternal and infant health.
- Racial disparities in birth outcomes, especially preterm birth, are widening.
- Structural racism and discrimination are identified as key contributors to adverse birth outcomes among African American women.
Conclusions:
- Understanding SDOH is crucial for addressing health inequities.
- Lifelong experiences of racism and discrimination among African American women are significant contributors to preterm birth.
- Further research and interventions are needed to mitigate the impact of structural racism on maternal and infant health.
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