Preterm births and low birth weights have risen in Multnomah County, according to a new Health Department report. Infant mortality has decreased over the past 10 years. These findings mirror national trends.
Health Department epidemiologists gather information about birth outcomes to better understand community health. The report looks at birth outcomes back to 2011. Data includes:
- Babies born small (low birth weight)
- Babies born early (preterm birth)
- Infant mortality (babies who die)
Babies born too soon or too small have a higher risk for developmental delays or health problems. Trends we see help inform decisions about our programs and services.
Having Support Can Improve Birth Outcomes
Most babies are born healthy. But for some communities we still see inequities. Black families have higher rates of poor birth outcomes than other communities. These racial inequities are caused by racism, discrimination, and generations of past trauma.
Making sure all families have access to healthcare can improve inequities. This is why we have the Parent Child and Family Health program, which supports pregnant people and their families.
Help is best when it comes from someone who understands you and your culture. This is especially important for African American families.
One example is our Healthy Birth Initiatives program, which serves pregnant African American and Black women. Nurse home-visiting programs like this help improve health outcomes for mother and baby. Families in the program have lower rates of preterm birth.
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