Story perspectives

U.S. Maternal Death Rates Surge Amid Health Cuts

4/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. maternal death rate stands at 32.6 per 100,000 live births, with Indigenous and Black mothers experiencing rates of 106.3 and 76.9, respectively.
Maternal deaths have surged by 27% over the past five years, coinciding with over 10,000 health sector job cuts.
States that decline Medicaid expansion exacerbate high maternal death rates, as coverage ends two months postpartum.
Compared to countries like Cuba and China, the U.S. lacks effective maternal health programs, contributing to higher mortality rates.

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Story summary

The U.S. maternal death rate stands at 32.6 per 100,000 live births, with Indigenous and Black mothers experiencing rates of 106.3 and 76.9, respectively.
Maternal deaths have surged by 27% over the past five years, coinciding with over 10,000 health sector job cuts.
States that decline Medicaid expansion exacerbate high maternal death rates, as coverage ends two months postpartum.
Compared to countries like Cuba and China, the U.S. lacks effective maternal health programs, contributing to higher mortality rates.