State of South Dakota's child: 1995

The total number of births in South Dakota declined again in 1994 to 10,504 with a .6% decrease in white babies and a 11% decrease in American Indian babies. The percent of low birth weight (LBW) newborns in South Dakota is lower than that observed nationally yet, increased in 1994 to 5.9%, the highest percent reported since 1974. These LBW newborns contributed to 79% of South Dakota's 1994 neonatal (less than 28 day mortality). Although there was a decrease in the total number of infant deaths in South Dakota, the infant mortality rate remained at 9.5 compared to the US rate of 7.9. The neonatal mortality rate was also higher than the US rate (5.4 versus 5.0) as was the post neonatal rate (4.1 versus 2.9). The post neonatal mortality rate in 1994 for infants of color (8.1) was the lowest ever recorded. In recent years the state's perinatal mortality rate that combines the fetal and neonatal mortality rates has shown a decline, possibly reflecting advances in care available during pregnancy. Recognizing the importance of prenatal care to perinatal outcome, the prevention of alcohol-related birth defects is considered in this year's report. Several screening instruments are presented with a discussion of the complex inter and intrapersonal dynamics that must be considered when women with drinking problems are identified and helped during pregnancy.