Reducing Infant Mortality: One Baby at A Time
Infant Mortality is the sudden death of a baby that takes place before their first birthday. Although infant mortality is common in all ethnicities, statistics show that black communities experience higher rates of infant mortality. Some of the factors include the impact of racism on maternal health, unequal access to healthcare, and higher rates of poverty and environmental risks in black communities.
One of the key factors contributing to the higher rate of black infant mortality is the impact of racism on maternal health. Black women are more likely to experience stress and discrimination during pregnancy, which leads to health complications that impact the health of their infants. Another factor is unequal access to education and healthcare. Black mothers are more likely to receive inadequate prenatal care and to give birth in hospitals with a lack of support and lower quality of care.
Efforts to address black infant mortality must address these complex factors: investing in quality healthcare and social services in black communities, addressing environmental risks, and combatting racism and discrimination in all forms. The FMIR Program is a community-based initiative by the Capital Area Healthy Start Coalition that focuses on reducing infant mortality in Leon & Wakulla Counties. The program works with healthcare providers, community organizations, local government agencies, and mothers to identify and address the underlying factors that have possibly contributed to infant mortality. The program relies on data from the community to inform its strategies and interventions.
It is important to continue to raise awareness of the issue of black infant mortality and to work towards reducing the disparities in healthcare and social services. By addressing the different factors that contribute to this issue, we can work towards ensuring that all infants, regardless of their ethnicity, have the opportunity for a healthy start in life.
If you are interested in learning more about the FIMR Project, please visit https://capitalareahealthystart.org/fimr/ or contact Jasmine Thorton, FIMR Program Coordinator and Outreach Specialist for more information.
