RISE OF INFANT DEATHS DUE TO EXTREME IMMATURITY, CALIFORNIA 1993-1997
Background: Extreme Immaturity (EI) is categorized as a birthweight of less than 1000 grams and/or a gestation period of less than 28 completed weeks. The rise of infant mortality due to EI, despite a steady decrease in California’s birth rates, is an emerging public health issue. EI, once the third leading cause of infant death, has bypassed Other Specified Conditions (ICD-9 code 779.8) and is now second to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (ICD-9 code 798.0).
Methods: Data were obtained from California birth and death records. The numbers of California EI deaths, classified as ICD-9 code 765.0 were identified and birth rates determined for each group. Results: In California, from 1993-1997, EI mortality rates have increased from 42.6 to 53.8 (per 100,000 live births). The rates among Whites have increased from 22.9 to 40.5, and among Hispanics, from 41.2 to 54.3. Although the rates for Blacks are considerably higher than the overall population, there was a steady decline from 1993-1996, from 175.6 to 143.1. However, in 1997 the rate increased to 178.0.
Conclusions: From 1993 to 1997, the overall rate of infant deaths due to EI has increased.
Implications: Efforts to identify the contributing factors of EI mortality in infants need to occur and methods developed to reduce the rate in the entire population with specific targeting of groups disproportionately affected.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of viewing the poster presentation, participants will be able to recognize Extreme Immaturity as an emerging public health issue
Keywords: Infant Mortality,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.