According to a Department of Health and Human Services report, maternal mortality rates in U.S. hospitals have dropped by 57% since 2008. The decline is seen across all racial and ethnic groups, age groups, and delivery modes. Higher mortality rates have been linked to factors such as advanced maternal age, minority status, cesarean delivery, and comorbidities. Adm. Rachel L. Levine, HHS’ assistant secretary for health, emphasized the importance of efforts to improve women’s healthcare and address risk factors.
According to a report from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), there has been a significant decline of 57% in maternal death rates in U.S. hospitals since 2008. This encouraging trend can be seen across all racial and ethnic groups, age groups, and modes of delivery. National strategies aimed at improving hospital care during childbirth are credited with the decrease in mortality rates.
The HHS study, which was published in JAMA Network Open, revealed that certain factors were associated with higher odds of mortality and severe maternal morbidity. These factors include advanced maternal age, belonging to a racial or ethnic minority group, undergoing cesarean delivery, and having comorbidities. The findings emphasize the importance of effectively managing women’s health by identifying the most significant risk factors and facilitating access to improved healthcare services.
Adm. Rachel L. Levine, M.D., the HHS’ assistant secretary for health, highlighted the significance of these results. She emphasized the importance of addressing women’s health holistically, ensuring that risk factors are properly managed and women have access to high-quality care. Maternal mortality rates are declining, indicating progress in the field of maternity care, but it is critical to maintain this positive trend by continuing to implement strategies that prioritize the well-being of expectant mothers.
