Maternal Health Outcomes of the Least and Most Vulnerable Counties in NJ

- Maternal health continues to be of great concern in the United States. -The maternal mortality rate for 2021 was 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, an increase from both 2020 and 2021.1 -The leading causes of pregnancy-related death are mental health, hemorrhage, and cardiovascular conditions. Most are preventable.2 -New Jersey ranks 27th, with 24.1 deaths occurring within 42 days of the end of a pregnancy per 100,000 live births.3 -While rates for the entire state show a need for improvement, in comparison to northern and central regions, rates in the southern region of NJ are approximately twice the state average.4 -There are a multitude of disparities contributing maternal health outcomes that vary by county and need to be addressed. -Creating government funding, reducing racial disparities, and promoting health initiatives are included in the Nurture NJ Maternal Health and Infant Health Strategic Plan.5