Infant Mortality

Infant Mortality:  Infant mortality in DuPage is historically below that of the state and nation although statewide and national figures are catching up.  Birth outcomes for the Black population in DuPage are of particular concern because infant mortality rates for this group exceed state and national figures.  Interestingly, Hispanics achieve relatively high birth outcomes with lower measured levels of prenatal care, sonot all of the disparities in infant mortality can be explained by the measures we usually associate with infant mortality.  However, experts do agree that the path to a healthy birth and first year of life starts with a healthy mother and includes good nutrition, regular medical checkups, avoidance of substances that can harm the child, and knowledgeable parents.