An estimated 2 million babies die within their first 24 hours each year worldwide and the United States has the second worst newborn mortality rate in the developed world.  American babies are 3 times more likely to die in their first month as children born in Japan.

            What’s causing this increased death rate among babies in the U.S.?  There is no simple explanation.  “The number of babies born prematurely has increased in general and births of two or more babies are often associated with prematurity.  Some of these multiple births are associated with fertility drugs and in-vitro fertilization procedures.  The gestation period in the U.S. is now averaging 39 weeks,” states Dr. Penni Cambre, a pediatrician with WTMA. 

            Part of the reason for the United States infant mortality rising in comparison to other countries is because while the U.S. rate has remained fairly stable, many other countries have greatly improved their health care systems.  Much of the improvement is due to enhanced vaccination programs, improved nutrition and public hygiene and a safer environment for families.  The foundation called “Save the Children” states, “ There is a direct line between the status of mothers and the status of their children.  In countries where mothers do well, children do well.”  In the United States, black infants are twice as likely as white babies to be premature, to have low birth weights and to die at birth.

            Even though the United States is the wealthiest country in the world, there are still pockets of population who are not receiving the health care they need.  Our health care system focuses on providing high-tech services for complicated cases, but we need to provide more basic primary and preventive health care services. 

            If you have any concerns or questions, you may contact your healthcare provider or Dr Penni Cambre’s office at 325-224-5141.