Our littlest community members—and their families—are counting on us to help them lead happy, healthy lives. But before we can do that, we must understand the mental, physical, social and financial determinants that stand in their way. Only then, can we meet them where they are, and be the right resource, for the right person, at the right time. Healthier Moms and Babies conducted the Infant Mortality Study to understand how our community can better support our most vulnerable residents.
The Future of Firsts
Allen County Infant Mortality Report
For every 1,000 babies born in Allen County, 6 infants die before their first birthdays.
Leading Causes of Infant Mortality
Pre-term Birth
Congenital Anomalies
Sleep Incidents
2020 Infant Mortality Rates
The infant mortality rate is the number of infant deaths for every 1,000 births.
| United States | Indiana | Allen County | Allen County Black Residents | 46806 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.4 | 6.6 | 6.9 | 15.2 | 11.4 |
Key Takeaways
Struggling with Mental Health
Not enough women hear about postpartum depression while they’re pregnant. Nearly half of survey respondents indicated they could not handle life’s ups and downs most of or all of the time, reporting symptoms of anxiety or depression.
Neglecting Regular Healthcare
Many women in the survey reported not getting routine check-ups that could identify conditions that would make pregnancy riskier. Many also reported that their doctors did not recommend regular well care at their postpartum checkups.
Misunderstanding Best Practices
Survey respondents reported a lack of communication with their healthcare providers about behaviors and practices to support healthy pregnancies, such as prescription medications, spacing between births, kick counts, safe sleep and more.
Encountering Economic Struggles
About a third of respondents rarely or never enjoy life without worrying about money. Less than half said they could make their monthly payments often for loans or utilities on time or without a late fee.
The Path Forward
As a result of this study, Healthier Moms and Babies is committed to:
Re-establishing an infant mortality community action network.
Promoting safe medication use, especially during pregnancy.
Destigmatizing maternal mental health.
Doubling-down on safe sleep education through a two-pronged approach.
Improving use of kick counts.
Increasing screenings for domestic violence.
Learn more about our action steps in the Overview Report.
Get Involved
Armed with this information, we can do more to help families in Allen County and prevent our family, friends and neighbors from suffering early deaths. Join us in our mission to reduce infant mortality.
Share this information with your friends, family and peers.
Join our team of dedicated volunteers.
Support our mission to reduce infant mortality.
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