How Arizonans are Addressing Infant Mortality

Infant Mortality is measured as the number of children who die before their first birthday, per 1,000 live births.

What is Infant Mortality?
Infant mortality may be caused by many circumstances, including birth defects, preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal pregnancy complications, sudden infant death syndrome, and injuries such as those due to suffocation.

There is also a strong correlation between race and infant mortality. African Americans have disproportionately high rates of infant mortality when compared with whites, and lower income individuals also have higher infant mortality rates.

How Would Arizonans Benefit from Decreased Infant Mortality?
Decreased infant mortality in Arizona would improve overall public health and quality of life for families, ensuring more children reach their first birthdays & thrive beyond. Reducing infant deaths would also lessen the emotional and financial strain on families and healthcare systems. It would promote healthier pregnancies and better access to prenatal care, leading to long-term benefits for maternal and child health. Ultimately, lower infant mortality rates contribute to a stronger, more prosperous community by fostering a healthier, more vibrant population.

Incidence of Infant Mortality data are updated annually and are available for the nation, states, and counties.

Source: Arizona Department of Health Services, Arizona Health Status and Vital Statistics Annual Report