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Maternal &
Infant Health
One Statewide Concern.
Two local views.
THE ESSENTIAL DISTINCTION
The “1 in 8” statistic measures preterm birth. It is not the East Baton Rouge Parish infant mortality rate, and it does not mean that one in eight babies dies.
Why Preterm Birth Is Part of This Conversation
National data help explain why preterm birth is relevant to infant health. In the United States in 2024:
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About two-thirds of infant deaths occurred among infants born preterm.
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Disorders related to short gestation and low birth weight were among the five leading causes of infant death.
These are national findings. They are not East Baton Rouge Parish mortality estimates and must not be used to calculate or imply a local infant mortality rate.
National source: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr75/nvsr75-03.pdf — CDC/NCHS, Infant Mortality in the United States, 2024; published June 16, 2026
A Number Is a Starting Point—Not the Whole Story
Every statistic represents mothers, babies, and families whose experiences cannot be summarized by a single number. The 13.1% parish rate describes how common preterm birth was among live births in East Baton Rouge Parish in 2024. It does not explain why an individual baby was born early.
Community data can help us ask better questions, identify areas for learning, and understand patterns. They should never be used to blame mothers, families, or neighborhoods.
Health Beyond Healthcare
Quality prenatal and clinical care are important, but the full weight of maternal and infant health does not rest on healthcare providers alone. Health can also be influenced by the social, economic, and physical conditions surrounding families before, during, and after pregnancy.
These conditions include whether a family can:
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find safe, stable, and affordable housing;
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travel to appointments using reliable transportation;
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live in a community with access to fresh fruits, vegetables, and other nutritious foods;
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maintain health coverage and obtain timely care;
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find, understand, and use clear health information and services; and
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draw on supportive family, community, and economic resources.
These conditions can make maintaining good health easier or harder. They do not prove what caused an individual family’s outcome.
Health Literacy, in Plain Language
Health literacy means being able to find, understand, and use health information and services. It is not a test of intelligence. Clear instructions, plain language, careful listening, translated materials, and navigation support can make health information more useful and accessible.
September Opportunities to Learn
September 8 — 2026 Louisiana Reproductive & Maternal Health Summit
Join the Southern Area’s virtual summit to learn about reproductive and maternal health. View the official event page for the current schedule and registration information.
September 19 — Walk to Remember, Run for Hope
Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge will host its annual 5K run and 1-mile walk to raise awareness about infant mortality, support healthier outcomes for babies and families, and honor families affected by infant loss.
Perkins Road Community Park, 7122 Perkins Road, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Consult the official registration page for the current schedule, registration fees, and participant information.
Community Organizations to Learn About
The organizations below are included for public education and awareness. Their inclusion does not signify a healthcare-provider endorsement, professional referral, formal chapter partnership, sponsorship, donation, or financial commitment.
Family Road of Greater Baton Rouge
Family Road’s stated mission is to strengthen families through leadership, collaboration, and coordination of community services. Its programs include Healthy Start services for pregnant women and women parenting young children in East Baton Rouge Parish, health education, referrals, and parenting support.
Learn more: https://www.familyroadgbr.org/
Conscious Moms
Conscious Moms is a Baton Rouge nonprofit focused on maternal mental health through awareness, education, resources, support, and dialogue.
Learn more: https://www.consciousmomsla.org/
The Safety Place
The Safety Place offers community safety and wellness education. Its programs include safe-sleep education, proper car-seat installation and education, infant CPR basics, choking rescue, and maternal-health workshops and resources.
Learn more: https://safetyplacela.org/programs/
The Tinina Q. Cade Foundation Connection
The Southern Area initiative is amplifying the Tinina Q. Cade Foundation. According to its official website, the Foundation provides information, support, and financial assistance to help families overcome infertility and pursue family building.Learn more:
Learn more: https://cadefoundation.org/