Pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S. surged nearly 28% between 2018 and 2022, with stark disparities across race, age, and geography. A nationwide analysis led by NIH researchers found that American Indian and Alaska Native women had the highest death rates—106.3 per 100,000 live births—followed by Black women at 76.9. These rates were 3.8 and 2.8 times higher than those of white women.
The largest spike occurred in 2021, driven disproportionately by women ages 25 to 39. Cardiovascular disorders were the leading cause of death, but late maternal deaths—occurring between 42 days and one year postpartum—were often linked to cancer, mental health disorders, and substance use.
Researchers emphasized the gap between obstetric care and the transition to primary care as a critical point of failure. “Considering this gap is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the long-term health outcomes of pregnancy,” they wrote.
Geographic disparities were also pronounced. Alabama and Mississippi had the highest maternal death rates, while California and Minnesota had the lowest. If the nation had matched the lowest state rate, nearly 2,700 deaths could have been prevented.
The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to reduce avoidable deaths and close racial and regional gaps. Without action, maternal mortality will continue to rise—especially among the most vulnerable.
See: “U.S. Pregnancy-Related Deaths Rise Over 5 Years” (April 11, 2025)
