New research from Ohio State University shows a marked increase in infant deaths following the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision, with particularly concerning trends among infants born with chromosomal and genetic abnormalities.
Summary: A comprehensive analysis reveals 247 additional monthly infant deaths nationwide after Roe v. Wade was overturned, with a 10% increase in mortality among babies with congenital anomalies.
Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Key Findings Show Significant Public Health Impact
“In the seven to 14 months after Roe v. Wade was overturned, we saw a 7% increase in infant mortality, and a 10% increase in those babies born with congenital anomalies,” said Parvati Singh, an assistant professor of epidemiology at Ohio State University.
The research, published in JAMA Pediatrics, analyzed national birth outcomes from 2018 through 2023. During this period, monthly infant mortality averaged 5.6 deaths per 1,000 live births, while mortality related to congenital anomalies averaged 1.3 deaths per 1,000 live births.
Understanding the Data and Implications
The study’s findings highlight an unexpected consequence of restricted healthcare access. As Maria Gallo, professor of epidemiology, noted, “I’m not sure that people expected infant mortality rates to increase following Dobbs. It’s not necessarily what people were thinking about. But when you restrict access to health care it can cause a broader impact on public health than can be foreseen.”
The researchers utilized the CDC’s Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC WONDER) database, examining patterns across 72 months. While the study examines national trends, researchers suggest the impact likely varies by state, with potentially stronger effects in areas with more restrictive abortion laws.
Glossary of Terms
- Infant Mortality Rate: Number of deaths per 1,000 live births before age one
- Congenital Anomalies: Birth defects or structural changes present at birth
- Chromosomal Disorders: Conditions caused by changes in chromosome structure or number
- Time Series Analysis: Statistical method for analyzing data points collected over time
- Dobbs Decision: 2022 Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade
Quick Quiz
- What percentage increase in overall infant mortality was observed after the Dobbs decision?
- How many additional total infant deaths per month were recorded compared to expectations?
- What was the average monthly infant mortality rate from 2018 through 2023?
Answers:
- 7%
- 247
- 5.6 deaths per 1,000 live births
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Further Reading: JAMA Pediatrics Article
