Fetal and Neonatal Mortality in White Middle Class Infants

A study of neonatal and perinatal mortality rates based on weight and gastational age for white single births in a middle class population receiving private medical care showed that mortality rates decrease until 40 weeks of gestation and then begin to rise again after 43 weeks of gestation. The mortality rates do not change significantly with increasing weight after 3,750 gm (7 lb). A plan, modified from others, classifies newborn infants into risk groups on the basis of weight-gestational age. In addition to defining high-risk newborn infants, a medium-risk group is identified whose special needs should be met.