Map Shows Best and Worst States for Preterm Birth Rates
Summary
Preterm birth rates in the United States are rising, especially in Southern states. The national average for preterm births in 2024 was 10.4%. States like Mississippi and Louisiana have higher rates, while New Hampshire has the lowest rate.Key Facts
- Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
- The U.S. national average preterm birth rate for 2024 was 10.4%.
- Southern states like Mississippi (15%) and Louisiana (14%) have the highest preterm birth rates.
- New Hampshire has the lowest preterm birth rate at 7.9%.
- Factors like obesity, hypertension, poverty, and limited healthcare access contribute to higher preterm rates in some states.
- Preterm birth rates in the U.S. have increased from 9.6% in 2014 to 10.4% in recent years.
- Only 11 states met the Healthy People 2030 preterm birth rate target of 9.4%.
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