Racial disparities in maternal health persist, with alarming statistics revealing that severe maternal morbidity is significantly higher among Black mothers compared to their white counterparts. According to a report from the United Health Foundation, data shows that in 2020, Black mothers experienced severe maternal morbidity at twice the rate of white mothers, and 1.5 times higher than Hispanic mothers.
The 2024 Maternal and Infant Health Disparities Data Brief also highlights the concerning infant mortality rates, where infants born to Black mothers faced rates that were 2.9 times higher than those born to Asian mothers.
Despite some positive trends in reducing infant mortality rates among various groups, the disparities remain pronounced. The report underscores that education levels significantly impact uninsured rates, particularly among women aged 18-44, where those with less than a high school education were 5.8 times more likely to be uninsured.
To combat these disparities, initiatives like the partnership between the United Health Foundation and the Church Avenue Merchant Block Association are working to improve access to prenatal care for underserved communities in New York.
The wider trend shows growing maternal care deserts in the United States, emphasizing the urgent need for focused action to alleviate inequities in maternal health outcomes. Addressing these disparities will require collaboration between lawmakers, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
See “Racial disparities still affecting maternal health, data shows” (August 28, 2024)
