A recent study reveals that 2,679 pregnancy-related deaths in the United States between 2018 and 2022 could have been prevented if national rates matched those of the state with the lowest mortality. This alarming statistic underscores the significant health disparities faced by minority communities, particularly non-Hispanic Black and American Indian or Alaska Native populations, who experience pregnancy-related mortality rates two to three times higher than their white counterparts.
Researchers from institutions including the National Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School emphasize that more than 80% of these deaths are preventable. The study highlights the need for standardized, age-adjusted approaches to accurately measure and address these disparities. Current tracking systems often produce inconsistent estimates, complicating efforts to monitor and improve maternal health outcomes.
Rural counties, where many minority populations reside, experience pregnancy-related mortality rates 1.7 times higher than large metropolitan areas. This disparity is attributed to factors such as limited access to healthcare, socioeconomic challenges, and inadequate infrastructure. The study calls for targeted interventions to ensure equitable healthcare access and support for all pregnant women, regardless of their location or background.
Addressing these disparities is crucial for improving maternal health outcomes and reducing preventable deaths. By implementing standardized tracking and targeted interventions, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards eliminating these inequities and ensuring that all women receive the care they need during pregnancy.
See: “Preventable pregnancy deaths: 2,679 lives lost in US from 2018–2022” (April 14, 2025)