March of Dimes Reports on U.S. Preterm Births

The 2024 March of Dimes report card reveals the U.S. received a D+ grade for maternal and infant health, marking the lowest scores in its 16-year history. Preterm birth rates remain concerning, with approximately 10.4% of U.S. babies born preterm, translating to over 3.5 million births annually, and the infant mortality rate increased to 5.6 per 1,000 live births in 2022. Florida and Alabama reported particularly high rates of preterm births, with Escambia County at 15.7% and Alabama receiving a failing grade. Racial and economic disparities persist, as Black infants face a 1.5 times higher rate of preterm birth compared to other groups. Stories of mothers like Ashley O'Neil highlight the urgent need for improved access to maternity care, especially in underserved areas. March of Dimes advocates for enhanced healthcare access and policy reforms to address these critical issues.