Unveiling the Hidden Crisis: High Stillbirth Rates in U.S.

A recent study reveals stillbirth rates in the U.S. are higher than official estimates, affecting 1 in 150 pregnancies, especially in low-income areas. Analyzing over 2.7 million pregnancies, researchers found preventable risk factors like maternal health issues. More attention and resources are needed to address this concerning trend.

A recent study has revealed that stillbirths in the United States are more common than previously estimated, affecting approximately 1 in 150 pregnancies. This rate is notably higher in low-income areas, as presented in the findings published in JAMA.

The research, utilizing commercial insurance claims data, suggests that current figures from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which report 1 in 175 pregnancies and rely on less reliable fetal death certificates, might understate the true incidence. Jessica Cohen, a lead researcher from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, noted the U.S. has one of the highest stillbirth rates among high-income countries, with little improvement in recent years.

Analyzing data from over 2.7 million pregnancies between 2016 and 2022, the study identified 18,893 stillbirths. Risk factors such as low amniotic fluid levels, fetal anomalies, chronic hypertension, and maternal conditions like diabetes and obesity were prevalent. Alarmingly, higher stillbirth rates were recorded in areas with significant Black populations compared to white families. The findings highlight a pressing need for focused research, resources, and attention to combat this ongoing public health challenge.

(With inputs from agencies.)