From Crisis to Commitment: Ending the Epidemic of Maternal Mortality among Black Women: A Call to Action

This article examines the growing crisis of maternal mortality among Black women in the United States, concentrating on the healthcare system's impact on the quality of pre- and postnatal care received by this population. Insufficient care and systemic inequities have reinforced life-threatening outcomes and excessively increased maternal mortality rates. The World Health Organization estimated 700 maternal deaths occur annually in the United States due to pregnancy-related difficulties, with Black women accounting for the majority. According to data from the National Vital Statistic System, the 2022 maternal mortality rate for Black women was 50.3 deaths per 100,000 live births-disproportionately higher than rates among White, Hispanic, and Asian women. Research has demonstrated that more than half of maternal mortalities are avertible, underscoring deep concern among healthcare workers. This article discusses strategies to reduce the number of maternal deaths among Black women, including providing (a) pre- and postnatal care awareness for women in impoverished areas; (b) diversity, equity, and inclusion training for healthcare professionals; and (c) routine social work screening to high-risk women to ensure healthcare needs are met. The objective of the article is to increase awareness of the crisis of maternal mortality, so as to take action and commit to a systemic change.