November is Prematurity Awareness Month, which shines a global spotlight on the current state of maternal and infant health in the US. Released last week, the 2024 March of Dimes Report Card reveals for the third consecutive year, the US earned a D+ grade for preterm birth. In addition, the US preterm birth rate remains historically high at 10.4%, and we continue to see significant disparities among racial and ethnic groups. In 2023, more than 370,000 babies were born preterm (1 in 10), and approximately one-third of the largest cities in the US received an F for preterm birth. 

Preterm birth is among the leading causes of infant mortality in the US. In 2022, there was a 3% spike in infant mortality, the most significant increase in over 20 years. Provisional data for 2023 shows that the infant mortality rate remains unchanged from 2022 at 5.6 deaths per 1,000 births. 

Having a healthy pregnancy starts before a person is pregnant. Many risk factors for preterm birth are preventable, and a person’s overall health is a strong determinant of their pregnancy health outcomes. This year’s report reveals many risk factors for preterm birth are not improving, and many pregnant people still are not receiving adequate prenatal care. Disparities continue to deepen for communities of color. 

The US must prioritize the health of its moms and babies. We can change the tide of the maternal and infant health crisis by taking action today to advocate for policy changes that will improve outcomes for moms and babies. Inform your legislator that maternal and infant health is a priority today and always!

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