Infant mortality rises for third year in a row, with risk tripling in deprived areas

"Infant mortality has risen for the third consecutive year, indicating a troubling trend where babies born in deprived areas face nearly three times the risk of death compared to wealthier regions."

"Prof Karen Luyt highlighted that the increase reflects ongoing inequities across ethnicity, geography, and socioeconomic backgrounds, emphasizing the need for a change in approach to address these issues."

"The top cause of death among infants is prematurity, linked to women's health issues such as obesity and smoking, highlighting regional care disparities and rising child poverty rates as contributing factors."

"Despite some ethnic disparities narrowing, the death rate for Black infants remains significantly higher than for white babies, showcasing persistent societal inequities that need urgent attention."

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