The United States has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed countries. According to data from the World Health Organization (WHO), the maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is 17 deaths per 100,000 live births as shown in this graph from Statistia
This is significantly higher than many other developed countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom, and France, which have maternal mortality rates of 7, 9, and 8 deaths per 100,000 live births, respectively. The reasons for this disparity are complex and multifactorial, but some contributing factors may include lack of access to healthcare, systemic racism and discrimination, and a high rate of chronic health conditions such as obesity and hypertension among pregnant women.
Efforts are underway to improve maternal health outcomes in the U.S., including increased access to prenatal care, improving quality of care during childbirth, and addressing systemic inequalities that contribute to poor health outcomes for marginalized communities.
What are Some Solution and Resources for Maternal Mortality?
Resources like the BMMA and the National Birth Equity Collaborative offer support, advocacy, and education to improve maternal health outcomes for Black women. Additionally, policy changes, such as expanding Medicaid coverage and increasing funding for maternal health programs, can also make a significant impact in reducing Black maternal death rates in the U.S.