A new study from John Foy & Associates reveals that preterm birth rates in the Southern U.S. far exceed the national average, putting thousands of babies at risk for serious health complications and lifelong challenges. In 2023, 373,902 infants were born prematurely in the U.S., accounting for 10.4% of all births but in Southern states, the numbers are significantly higher, particularly among Black and Indigenous mothers.
Key Findings:
- Mississippi (18%), Alabama (17%), and South Carolina (16%) have the highest preterm birth rates among Black mothers, exceeding the national average (14.7%).
- Babies born prematurely are at greater risk for cerebral palsy, brain hemorrhages, and other birth injuries that can lead to lifelong developmental challenges.
- Environmental stressors such as air pollution, extreme heat, and limited healthcare access contribute to the crisis.
- Chronic maternal health conditions like diabetes (28.8%) and hypertension (23.3%) increase the risk of preterm births and birth injuries.
State-Specific Breakdown of Preterm Birth Risks:
| State | Black Preterm Birth Rate | American Indian Preterm Birth Rate | Overall Risk |
| Mississippi | 18% | 17% | Highest in the U.S. |
| Alabama | 17% | 14% | Critical Risk |
| South Carolina | 16% | 13% | High Risk |
| Georgia | 15% | 15% | High Risk |
| North Carolina | 15% | 12% | High Risk |
Mississippi (18% Black, 17% American Indian Preterm Birth Rate)
Mississippi has the highest preterm birth rates in the country, disproportionately affecting Black and Indigenous mothers. Contributing factors include poor prenatal care access, high maternal diabetes rates, and restrictive healthcare policies.
Alabama (17% Black, 14% American Indian Preterm Birth Rate)
Alabama ranks among the highest-risk states, with 17% of Black mothers experiencing preterm births. The state struggles with high maternal hypertension rates and limited Medicaid expansion for prenatal care.
South Carolina (16% Black, 13% American Indian Preterm Birth Rate)
South Carolina’s preterm birth rate is one of the highest in the South, fueled by environmental stressors such as poor air quality, extreme heat, and racial healthcare disparities.
Georgia (15% Black, 15% American Indian Preterm Birth Rate)
Georgia reports one of the highest American Indian preterm birth rates (15%), raising concerns about healthcare access in rural areas and maternal health programs.
North Carolina (15% Black, 12% American Indian Preterm Birth Rate)
North Carolina’s preterm birth rate is among the highest in the South, driven by chronic maternal conditions, lack of prenatal screenings, and social determinants of health.
Short Methodology:
This study is based on CDC birth records, March of Dimes data, and state health department reports, combined with legal and medical expert analysis on preventable birth injuries in the Southern U.S.
- Data Sources: CDC birth records, March of Dimes preterm birth data, state health reports.
- Key Factors Analyzed: Preterm birth rates by race, maternal health disparities, environmental factors.
- Expert Insights: Reviewed by birth injury attorneys and neonatal health specialists.
- Objective: To highlight regional and racial disparities in preterm births and advocate for better maternal care policies.
Quote from John Foy & Associates:
“With preterm birth rates rising in the Southern U.S., families face increasing risks of birth injuries, long-term health challenges, and financial burdens. Raising awareness and advocating for better maternal care is crucial to protecting the health of both mothers and newborns.”
I invite you to explore the full study here for a deeper dive into these narratives and a more comprehensive analysis.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
