Description of Collaborative Activity: |
Infant mortality is one of the most important indicators of the health of a nation. According to a National Center for Health Statistics data brief issued in 2013, the United States ranked 27th in the world in infant mortality. Medical research, public health outreach, and social services have helped the overall U.S. infant mortality rate to decline during the 20th century. In spite of this general decline, infant mortality rates for certain populations, including African American, Puerto Rican, and American Indian/Alaskan Native infants remain above the U.S. average of 6.05 per 1,000 live births.
The NIH is committed to conducting and supporting research that reduces the high U.S. infant mortality rate, and the disparate rates that impact communities of color. The run/walk began in front of Building 1 on the NIH main campus October 3, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. This event aiided to raise awareness about infant mortality, particularly in those communities where the rates are above the US average. During the event NICHD highlighted ongoing research efforts supported by NICHD in addressing this public health concern. |
