CDC: Infant mortality increased in 2022 for first time in decades

The U.S. infant mortality rate increased in 2022 for the first time in 20 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than 20,500 babies died in 2022 before they turned one. There were 5.6 infant deaths for every 1,000 live births, up 3% from 2021. The leading causes of infant deaths were congenital malformations (20%) and disorders related to short gestation and low birth rates (14%). Other causes were sudden infant death syndrome, unintentional injuries and maternal complications. Experts suggest COVID-19 likely contributed to the increase. Pregnant individuals who were infected with COVID-19 were nearly four times more likely to be admitted to the intensive care unit than those who weren’t. Abortion restrictions also may have played a role. (CNN article, 7/25/24)