September is Infant Mortality Awareness Month

September is Infant Mortality Awareness Month. An estimate of the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 live births, infant mortality is a critical measure of a population’s overall health. Because Black women and Black babies have the highest maternal and infant mortality rates compared to women and babies of all other ethnic/racial groups, Infant Mortality Awareness Month is extremely important for African Americans. AAHP observes Infant Mortality Awareness Month by highlighting the SMILE Program (AAHP’s maternal and child health focus area),  its programs and services, as well as information and insights that can help curtail Black maternal and infant mortality and reduce one of the most serious health disparities that impact Black people.

Nationwide, Black babies are more than three times as likely to die from low-birth weight complications compared to White babies.IN MOCO  Not only do Black women have relatively high rates of the health conditions that lead to maternal and infant mortality, (obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes), Black reason are also more likely to be subjected to consistently higher levels of stress as well, due such factors as economic uncertainty, racism, sexism, personal relationship stress, etc. Pregnant women (and women who plan to become pregnant) should take extra care of their physical and mental health. Proper nutrtion , exercise, and stress management can help prevent health issues that can affect an unborn baby, such as premature birth or low-birth weight, both major drivers of infant mortality.

AAHP invites Montgomery County residents to observe Infant Mortality Awareness Month by learning more about the SMILE Program and its work to support and guide Black women towards a healthier journey with pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, and caring for themselves and their babies. We also invite you to spread the word about our services to other Montgomery County residents.