Louisiana has the highest maternal mortality rate in the nation. Sadly, and to our state’s discredit, 68% of Louisiana’s maternal deaths are deemed preventable. Many are eager to see what will come of the work of the Nursing Maternal Mortality and Preterm Births Task Force created by the Louisiana Legislature in Senate Concurrent Resolution 20: Task force approves recommendations to lawmakers to fight maternal mortality. The Task Force’s January 2024 report is complete in plenty of time for the Legislature’s 2024 Regular Session.
CRITICAL: 07/03/2023: Maternal Mortality Increases in Louisiana by 93%
Study shows sharp increases in maternal deaths over two decades: Some states see double the number of deaths among non-white populations by Kelcie Moseley-Morris, Louisiana Illuminator
The study, published in the Journal for the American Medical Association on Monday, showed five states with a 93% increase in Black maternal mortality rates: Louisiana, New Jersey, Georgia, Arkansas and Texas.
Why does this matter for Louisiana’s children?
- Maternal deaths have a profoundly negative impact on the overall well-being of families. The death of a young mother can create emotional, psychological, and financial burdens for the remaining family members.
- Newborns are at risk when maternal deaths occur. Without a mother’s care and support, infants face increased health risks and the baby’s risk of mortality increases.
- The health and opportunities of the mom’s surviving children are compromised. Children whose development is interrupted by grief experience a decline in their physical and mental health.
- Those for whom fiscal matters matter must understand that maternal deaths harm communities’ economic productivity. When mothers die, and families struggle to cope with the aftermath, loss of income can push families into poverty and chronic financial straights.
Finally, there is the simple fact that preventable deaths are wrong. We in Louisiana can and must do better in our efforts to reduce maternal deaths.