U.S. Maternal Deaths Doubled Over Two Decades; Highest Rates Are Black Mothers

Rates Of U.S. Maternal Deaths

The study highlights the unequal impact, with the highest rates of U.S. maternal deaths among Black mothers and significant increases observed among American Indian and Native Alaskan mothers. Disparities in maternal mortality are not limited to specific regions but extend across the country, including states like Wyoming and Montana.

Structural racism and access to healthcare are identified as contributing factors to U.S. maternal deaths. The study emphasizes the need for a comprehensive understanding of the root causes and the implementation of policies that promote health equity. Excessive bleeding, infection, heart disease, suicide, and drug overdose are among the common causes of U.S. maternal deaths.

The researchers used national vital statistics data on deaths and live births to estimate U.S. maternal deaths rate per 100,000 live births. The findings highlight the alarming disparities in maternal mortality rates across different racial and ethnic groups. For instance, there were significant increases in maternal mortality rates among American Indian and Alaska Native mothers, white mothers, Hispanic mothers, Black mothers, and Asian and Pacific Islander mothers.

The COVID-19 pandemic likely exacerbated the existing disparities in U.S. maternal deaths. However, preliminary data suggest a decline in maternal mortality rates in 2022 compared to the previous year. Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of the pandemic on maternal health.

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How to Address U.S. Maternal Deaths?

Understanding and addressing these disparities is crucial to develop community-based solutions and allocating appropriate resources to combat U.S. maternal deaths. Telemedicine and perinatal quality collaboratives are among the initiatives being implemented to increase access to care and improve maternal health outcomes.

Efforts must continue to prioritize maternal health and ensure that all women, regardless of their socioeconomic background, receive the care they need during pregnancy and childbirth.

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