Infant Mortality Rate Declines in Meck County

Photo by Vecteezy

The Mecklenburg County Public Health Department released a new report in February highlighting infant mortality trends and maternal health outcomes, showing overall improvement but persistent disparities.

Infant mortality refers to the death of a baby before their first birthday.

The report found birth outcomes in Mecklenburg County have improved in recent years, with declining rates of premature births, low birth weight and infant mortality. However, disparities remain. Non-Hispanic Black infants face a significantly higher risk of complications and death compared with non-Hispanic White infants.

From 2014 to 2023, the county’s infant mortality rate fell to 5 deaths per 1,000 births, below the national rate of 5.6 and North Carolina’s rate of 6.8. From 2021 to 2023, the rate was 8.8 deaths per 1,000 births for non-Hispanic Black infants, 4.8 for Hispanic infants and 2.4 for non-Hispanic White infants.

“Mecklenburg County has a vision that all babies in our county are born healthy and reach their optimal potential,” said Dr. Kimberly Scott, interim director of the Mecklenburg County Public Health Department.

About 70 infants die each year in Mecklenburg County before their first birthday, she said.

Perinatal conditions account for nearly half of infant deaths, followed by birth defects. Sudden unexpected infant deaths are the leading injury-related cause and the third-leading cause overall.

The report also found high blood pressure is a common maternal health risk factor, and about 1 in 5 pregnant people receive inadequate prenatal care.

Health officials said reducing infant mortality will require community-wide efforts, including expanded prenatal care, home-visiting programs and support from doulas and midwives.