Why is there a racial disparity in infant mortality?

Why is there a racial disparity in infant mortality?

Disparities in maternal and infant mortality are rooted in racism. Structural racism in health care and social service delivery means that African American women often receive poorer quality care than white women.

Does race affect infant mortality rate?

Results: Analyses revealed no racial/ethnic differences in neonatal mortality, but increased risk among black infants for postneonatal death. Inadequate prenatal care was associated with an increased risk for neonatal mortality across all three racial/ethnic groups.

What ethnic group has the highest infant mortality rate?

During 2016-2018 (average), the infant mortality rate (per 1,000 live births) in the United States was highest for black infants (10.5), followed by American Indian/Alaska Natives (8.2), whites (4.8) and Asian/Pacific Islanders (4.1).

Why is maternal mortality high in Africa?

The main direct causes of maternal deaths, accounting for up to 80 percent of cases in Africa, are obstetric hemorrhage, puerperal sepsis, pregnancy-induced hypertension (including eclampsia), obstructed labor and ruptured uterus, and complications of unsafe abortion (see figure 16.1).

What drives racial and ethnic disparities in prenatal care for expectant mothers?

Socioeconomic characteristics like education, family income, and participation in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children explain far more of the racial/ethnic gaps in prenatal care than any other factors.

What factors contribute to racial disparities in maternal health outcomes?

Racial Disparities Exist Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than White women. Multiple factors contribute to these disparities, such as variation in quality healthcare, underlying chronic conditions, structural racism, and implicit bias.