Fetal Mortality: United States, 2022

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Maternal and Child Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Fetal mortality remains a significant public health concern globally.
• Understanding trends and disparities in fetal deaths is crucial for targeted interventions.
• The United States has historically reported fetal mortality data to monitor trends.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present and analyze 2022 fetal mortality data in the United States.
• To examine fetal mortality trends by maternal demographics, behaviors, and gestational age.
• To identify disparities in fetal mortality rates across different racial and ethnic groups.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive tabulation and interpretation of all reported fetal deaths (≥20 weeks gestation) in the U.S. for 2022.
• Analysis restricted to specific states for cause-of-death data, using the 2003 revision of the fetal death report.
• Examination of trends by maternal race/Hispanic origin, age, tobacco use, plurality, sex, gestational age, birthweight, and causes of death.

Main Results:

• The 2022 U.S. fetal mortality rate was 5.48 per 1,000, a 4% decrease from 2021 and a new historic low.
• Rates declined for both early (20-27 weeks) and late (≥28 weeks) gestations.
• Highest rates were observed for non-Hispanic Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander and non-Hispanic Black females; lowest for non-Hispanic Asian females.
• Rates were highest for women aged 40+, smokers, and those with multiple gestations.

Conclusions:

• The U.S. achieved a record low fetal mortality rate in 2022, indicating progress in maternal and infant health.
• Persistent racial and ethnic disparities highlight the need for continued focus on equitable care.
• Understanding risk factors like advanced maternal age and smoking remains critical for prevention efforts.