Infant Mortality

Infant mortality rates provide key information about maternal/infant health and are an important marker for the overall health of a community. In 2023, more than 20,000 infants died in the US before their first birthday – including 341 in Oklahoma. 

The leading causes of infant mortality are birth defects, preterm birth, low birthweight, sudden infant death syndrome, and maternal pregnancy complications. In Oklahoma, accidents have also been named a common cause of infant death in recent years. 

Infants born to Black, American Indian/Alaska Native (AIAN), and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NHPI) mothers have consistently had higher rates of infant mortality compared to other racial/ethnic groups. In 2023, infants born to Black women in the U.S. were over twice as likely to die relative to those born to White women, with rates among AIAN and NHPI infants also significantly above average (9.2 and 8.2 per 1,000). Patterns in Oklahoma reflect those seen nationally: from 2021-2023, the mortality rate among infants born to black mothers was 12.4 deaths per 1,000 live births – 1.7x the state’s average.  

Losing an infant has profound and lasting impacts on families and communities. For mothers, infant mortality is often followed by prolonged emotional distress, disruptions in sleep and eating patterns, and social isolation. Expanding access to mental health resources and encouraging strong support systems is essential to helping families navigate infant loss.

While it’s impossible to eliminate all risks that come with having a baby, preventative measures – such as accessing adequate prenatal care and developmental screenings – can be taken to reduce the likelihood of mortality. Further, addressing social determinants of health and raising awareness about risks are key ways to reduce the prevalence of infant mortality in our state.  When women are able to access earlier and more consistent care, babies are born healthier.