In the U.S., the number babies who die in their first year of life is declining, with an all-time low 6.4 infant mortality rate (6.4 deaths for every 1,000 live births) reported in 2009, the most recent available data. The U.S. infant mortality rate ranks near the bottom among industrialized nations. Moreover, there are persistent disparities that affect racial and ethnic minorities and geographic areas.
As a result, Secretary Sebelius has announced the creation of the first-ever national strategy to address infant mortality. The focus of improvements in five common priority areas support efforts to reduce infant mortality through best practices and lessons learned.
- Reduce Elective Deliveries before 39 weeks
- Increase Safe Sleep Practices
- Enhance Perinatal Regionalization Reduction
- Increase smoking cessation among pregnant women
- Expand access to interconception care
On Child Health Day, we are reminded that by giving our children a healthy start in life, we put them and our country on the path to a successful future!