Articles tagged with Infant Mortality
A population-based study found that county-level access to maternity care inversely associated with infant mortality risk. The study highlights racial and ethnic disparities in mortality risk between full-access and no-access counties among white infants only.
Pediatric access to high-readiness emergency departments in the US declined by 3% from 70% to 67% between 2013 and 2021. However, excluding staffing-related readiness, access increased by 4% from 76% to 80%, benefiting around 2.2 million more children.
A study found that in-utero exposure to extreme heat increases neonatal mortality rates, with a significant impact on economically disadvantaged and less educated mothers. Targeted interventions such as community health workers, education, and economic development are recommended to mitigate this effect.
A nationwide observational study found significant regional differences in antibiotic use among newborns in Sweden, with the goal of treating no more than one percent of infants while maintaining low sepsis prevalence. The study highlights the need for increased awareness and improved practices to reduce overuse of antibiotics.
A new study shows that socially integrated female chimpanzees are more likely to raise surviving babies, regardless of kinship. Females with stronger social ties had a significantly better chance of raising their infants through to their first year and beyond.
A study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found that the closures resulted in a 4% reduction in physicians per capita and declines in infant, non-infant, and total mortality rates. The Flexner Report era reforms led to significant changes in the US medical education landscape.
A cohort study suggests severe neonatal morbidity is a significant risk factor for childhood mortality, highlighting the importance of preventing and identifying early signs of severe conditions. Efforts to reduce mortality through infancy and late adolescence may benefit from targeted prevention strategies.
A daily dose of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole reduced the proportion of preterm births by 40% in pregnant women with HIV. The antibiotic also increased birth weight by 177 grams, improving health outcomes for babies. Researchers hope to confirm these findings in future trials.
A new study reveals that even weak tropical cyclones significantly increase infant deaths in low- and middle-income countries. The researchers analyzed nearly 1.7 million child records from seven economically disadvantaged countries, finding an average increase of 11% in infant mortality rates.
The study tracks maternal, fetal, and infant mortality trends in the US from 2000 to 2023. Despite improvements in some years, overall rates of maternal and infant mortality increased during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A landmark study found that over 3 million children worldwide lost their lives in 2022 due to antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-related infections. The study data also revealed a sharp rise in the use of Watch and Reserve antibiotics, posing serious long-term risks.
A recent Stanford University study found that foreign aid sanctions can negate up to 64% of progress against maternal mortality, with similar impacts on infant and child mortality. The researchers estimate that sanctions lasting five years or more can lead to significant increases in death rates among mothers, children, and infants.
The Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in the UK recognize promising scientists under 42 for their work on pressing issues. The three winners are tackling infant mortality, green manufacturing, and predicting long-term climate change. Their prize-winning research will receive £100,000 in unrestricted funds.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found a statistically significant relation between air lead concentration and infant mortality. Higher concentrations of lead in the air caused higher levels of infant mortality in infants' first month and first year, suggesting both in utero and environmental exposures matter.
Two new studies estimate that abortion bans in 14 US states resulted in 22,180 additional live births and 478 infant deaths. The effects of these bans vary across racial and socioeconomic groups, with the largest impacts on populations experiencing structural disadvantages.
A study found that US states adopting abortion bans experienced significant increases in infant mortality, especially for deaths caused by congenital conditions. These increased mortality rates were disproportionately high among already vulnerable populations, such as Black infants and residents of Southern states.
New research from VCU and Children's Hospital of Richmond at VCU shows a decline in infant mortality rates by 24.2% between 1999 and 2022. However, Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) mortality rates have risen significantly, with the highest rates among Black, Native Hawaiian, and Native American infants.
A recent study found that infant mortality from sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) has increased significantly in the US, affecting Black infants disproportionately. The analysis suggests possible explanations for this trend, including COVID-19 and maternal opioid use.
UVA researchers analyzed 300 blood serum samples from babies who died from SIDS and identified specific biological indicators linked to their deaths. The study found 35 predictors of SIDS, including ornithine and a lipid metabolite critical for brain and lung health.
A Swedish study found a significant decrease in infant mortality and morbidity among babies born after 41 weeks of gestation. The study showed a 47% reduction in stillbirths or infant deaths within four weeks, with researchers attributing the improvement to routine induction practices.
UCSF Medical Center has received the highest possible rating for maternity care, reflecting its commitment to clinical excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration. The hospital's maternal care teams include a broad array of expertise, including nurse practitioners, midwives, and obstetrician anesthesiologists.
Infant mortality rates in the US increased significantly following the Dobbs decision, with no post-Dobbs months showing lower-than-expected rates. The findings are consistent with previous reports of increased infant mortality in Texas following its abortion ban.
New research from Ohio State University found a 7% increase in US infant mortality rates in the months following the Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health decision. The study also revealed a 10% increase in infant deaths among babies born with chromosomal or genetic abnormalities.
A nationwide effort to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in newborns has been launched with a $1.9 million Department of Health and Human Services grant. The grant will fund the distribution of an NEC prevention bundle, NEC-Zero, to help neonatal intensive care units recognize and prevent NEC.
A cross-sectional study found significant increases in sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in SUID rates was linked to off-season resurgences of infectious pathogens, with RSV rates closely approximating this shift.
A recent review by Imperial College London suggests that Nigeria's high infant mortality rate could be addressed through the adoption of existing scientific breakthroughs and technological advancements. The review highlights several low-cost advances in neonatal care developed by Nigerian clinicians and researchers, including adaptive ...
Infants born to mothers with obesity are at higher risk of SUID due to a dose-dependent association between increasing maternal BMI and SUID risk. Research suggests that maternal obesity should be added to the list of known risk factors for SUID.
A population-level study found no increase in neonatal and infant mortality rates during the initial COVID-19 pandemic period. However, social distancing measures were linked to higher preterm birth rates with a lag period.
Nearly 20,000 US youth deaths could be avoided if US infant mortality rates matched those of 16 comparison countries. The study highlights the need for improved healthcare and interventions to reduce US youth mortality rates.
A new study found that Texas' 2021 ban on abortion in early pregnancy was associated with unexpected increases in infant and neonatal deaths in Texas between 2021 and 2022. Congenital anomalies also surged in Texas, but not elsewhere in the US.
Between 2018 and 2022, US infant deaths related to drugs increased 2.2-fold, with most cases among post-neonatal infants born to non-Hispanic White mothers. The COVID-19 pandemic likely played a significant role in this increase due to reduced access to prenatal care and hospital closures.
Researchers found that children born to mothers with HIV infection have an increased risk of immune abnormalities, impaired growth, and development. Infants exposed to HIV had a 41% higher mortality rate than those not exposed, with systemic inflammation being strongly associated with infant mortality.
A new analysis has found evidence supporting the use of treatments to enhance mucosal healing and reduce inflammation in the gut, leading to improved outcomes for children with malnutrition. The study identified that a short course of treatment can restore mucosal integrity, reducing intestinal damage and systemic inflammation.
A recent study published in the International Journal of Gynecology and Obstetrics found a correlation between hookah use and increased symptoms of postpartum depression. Pregnant women who used hookahs before or during pregnancy were more likely to experience depressive symptoms, particularly among mothers from historically marginaliz...
A new University of Bristol-led study finds that infants of non-White ethnicities are at a greater risk of death than their White counterparts. The analysis highlights the need to tackle factors driving infant mortality, with preterm birth being a significant contributor to this risk.
A new study found that states with restrictive abortion laws had a 16% increased infant mortality rate compared to those with more comprehensive reproductive healthcare. Demographic factors such as low education attainment and inadequate prenatal care also contributed to elevated IMR.
Research suggests delaying cord clamping by two minutes can significantly reduce mortality rates among premature babies. This allows blood to flow from the placenta, easing breathing transitions and potentially saving lives.
A study of over 13 million US infants found maternal Medicaid insurance associated with higher infant mortality rates. Novel strategies are needed to improve outcomes among women and infants enrolled in Medicaid.
A new Michigan State University and Corewell Health research found that in-home prenatal services can significantly reduce the risk of premature births and infant deaths. Pregnant individuals receiving enhanced prenatal care saw a 57% reduced risk, while expectant Black mothers experienced an even greater reduction.
A new study examines racial and socioeconomic differences in US preterm birth and mortality rates over 25 years. Despite improvements, disparities persist, with Black infants 1.4 times more likely to die from preterm birth than White and Hispanic infants.
US preterm infant mortality rates have declined among all categories of prematurity between 1995 and 2020. However, racial disparities persist, while socioeconomic disparities have widened over time, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address these inequalities.
A large-scale US study finds that breastfeeding reduces post-perinatal infant mortality by 33%. The findings suggest promoting and supporting breastfeeding could help address the high rate of infant mortality in the US. Regional variations exist, with higher initiation rates associated with lower mortality rates.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found that 'Kangaroo mother care' reduces the risk of mortality by 32% and severe infection by 15%. Starting KMC within 24 hours and for at least eight hours a day also appears to be effective in reducing mortality.
Researchers found that 78% of patients reported at least one social risk factor impacting their health. A chatbot was developed to provide follow-up outreach and deliver educational content to recently discharged birthing individuals.
A study of 390,000 infants found that those born to mothers with opioid use disorder or neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome had a higher risk of postneonatal infant mortality. The study highlights the need for supportive interventions during and after pregnancy to reduce adverse outcomes.
A recent study analyzing 46 million births across nearly three decades reveals a concerning pattern of maltreatment of non-white pregnant women, including disregarding their birthing wishes. The research suggests that medical induction of labor nearly tripled between 1990 and 2017 in the U.S., with no clear association with increased r...
A new study finds that rising temperatures will increase harmful plant emissions and dust, leading to a 14% boost in air pollution. The degradation in future air quality from natural sources is predicted to be significant, with two-thirds of the pollution coming from plants.
Research led by Professor Corey Bradshaw found that higher baby death rates and larger household sizes contribute to higher fertility rates, supporting the need for greater access to family planning and contraception. The study suggests that increasing access to quality contraception can help reduce infant mortality and curb population...
A new study reveals that US pregnancies are shorter than those in England and the Netherlands, with average lengths declining by over half a week between 1990 and 2020. This finding suggests that reducing medical interventions during the birthing process could improve maternity care outcomes in the US.
A recent analysis published in Contemporary Economic Policy found that 6-week paid family leave in California saved 339 infant lives from 2004-2008. The study also revealed a significant reduction in post-neonatal mortality rates for infants with married mothers and boys.
Participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) is associated with improved birth outcomes, including lower infant mortality. The review also found that WIC participants are more likely to receive child preventative services, such as vaccines.
An observational study found that Apgar scores less accurately predict mortality in certain racial groups, with Black infants facing a higher risk despite lower scores. The study analyzed data from over 6 million US-born infants.
A randomized evaluation of Nurse-Family Partnership found that low-income mothers in South Carolina experienced adverse birth events at a rate of 26.9 percent, similar to the control group. The study evaluated various outcomes, but more evidence is needed on effective interventions to address racial and structural inequities.
A study analyzing data from 159 countries found that raising tobacco taxes is associated with a significant reduction in neonatal and infant mortality rates. The research suggests that implementing recommended WHO tobacco tax rates could lead to substantial decreases in these deaths, potentially saving up to 231,220 infant lives annually.
A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that babies born with Congenital Zika Syndrome are at an 11x greater risk of dying during their first three years of life compared to those born without. The study highlights the importance of protecting women, especially those pregnant or of child-bearing age, against ...
A new study by Wake Forest School of Medicine found a significant link between food insecurity and higher infant mortality rates in North Carolina. The study analyzed health data from all 100 counties in the state, finding that infants in North Carolina had a 36% higher mortality rate compared to national averages.
A new BU study found that nearly one in ten infant deaths under 6 months old were caused by RSV, with two-thirds occurring outside of hospitals. The virus was primarily concentrated in infants under 3 months old, and preventative measures such as maternal vaccinations could effectively reduce mortality rates.
The CHAMPS program, a multi-year quality improvement initiative in Mississippi, increased breastfeeding rates by 10 percentage points overall, with significant gains among Black mother-baby dyads. Rooming-in practices also improved, leading to reduced infant mortality and morbidity.
A new study reveals that poor women in rural India are more likely to die during childbirth due to lack of access to safe hospital births. The research found that only 26% of women in low-performing states deliver in hospitals, compared to 87% of those exposed to mass media.
A new study from Australian National University challenges old assumptions about infant mortality in ancient populations. The research suggests that fertility had a greater influence on the proportion of deceased infants than infant mortality rate.