Urban-rural differences in pregnancy-related deaths, United States, 2011-2016

Disparities in Rates of Death From HIV or Tuberculosis Before Age 65 Years, by Race, Ethnicity, and Sex, United States, 2011-2020

OBJECTIVE

Death from tuberculosis or HIV among people from racial and ethnic minority groups who are aged <65 years is a public health concern. We describe age-adjusted, absolute, and relative death rates from HIV or tuberculosis from 2011 through 2020 by sex, race, and ethnicity among US residents.

METHODS

We used mortality data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention online data system on deaths from multiple causes from 2011 through 2020 to calculate age-adjusted death rates and absolute and relative disparities in rates of death by sex, race, and ethnicity. We calculated corresponding 95% CIs for all rates and determined significance at P < .05 by using z tests.

RESULTS

For tuberculosis, when compared with non-Hispanic White residents, non-Hispanic American Indian or Alaska Native residents had the highest level of disparity in rate of death (666.7%). Similarly, as compared with non-Hispanic White female residents, American Indian or Alaska Native female residents had a high relative disparity in death from tuberculosis (620.0%). For HIV, the age-adjusted death rate was more than 8 times higher among non-Hispanic Black residents than among non-Hispanic White residents, and the relative disparity was 735.1%. When compared with non-Hispanic White female residents, Black female residents had a high relative disparity in death from HIV (1529.2%).

CONCLUSION

Large disparities in rates of death from tuberculosis or HIV among US residents aged <65 years based on sex, race, and ethnicity indicate an ongoing unmet need for effective interventions. Intervention strategies are needed to address disparities in rates of death and infection among racial and ethnic minority populations.

Community level factors and racial inequities in delivery hospitalizations involving severe maternal morbidity in the United States, 2016-2019

The objective of this study was to evaluate the racial and ethnic disparities in delivery hospitalizations involving severe maternal morbidity (SMM) by location of residence and community income. We used the 2016 to 2019 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project National Inpatient Sample. International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification codes were used to identify delivery hospitalizations with SMM. Using logistic regression models, we examined the association between race and ethnicity and delivery hospitalizations involving SMM. In adjusted analyses, the models were stratified by location of residence and community income and adjusted for patient and hospital characteristics. In rural areas, non-Hispanic Black women (AOR 1.50; 95% CI 1.25-1.79) and women of other races (AOR 1.32; 95% CI 1.03-1.69) had an increased odds of experiencing a delivery hospitalization involving SMM when compared to non-Hispanic White women. In micropolitan areas, non-Hispanic Black women (AOR 1.88; 95% CI 1.79-1.97), non-Hispanic Asian/Pacific Islander women (AOR 1.54; 95% CI 1.16-2.05), and women of other races (AOR 1.31; 95% CI 1.03-1.67) had an increased odds of experiencing a delivery hospitalization involving SMM when compared to non-Hispanic White women. Non-Hispanic Black women also had increased odds of experiencing a delivery hospitalization involving SMM in communities with the lowest income (quartile 1) (AOR 1.59; 95% CI 1.49-1.66), middle income (quartiles 2 and 3) (AOR 1.81; 95% CI 1.72-1.91), and highest income (AOR 2.09; 95% CI 1.90-2.29) when compared to non-Hispanic White women. We found that location of residence and community income are associated with racial and ethnic differences in SMM in the United States. These factors, outside of individual factors assessed in previous studies, provide a better understanding of some of the structural and systemic factors that may contribute to SMM.

Rural hospital and obstetric unit closures as social determinants of racial and ethnic maternal health disparities: A scoping review

AIMS

To synthesize literature examining (1) rural hospital or obstetric unit closures as a social determinant of maternal/infant health outcomes and (2) closures as a social determinant of racial/ethnic disparities in maternal/infant health outcomes.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

DATA SOURCES

MEDLINE, OVID/Embase and CINAHL were searched systematically to identify sources from 31 July 2003 to 31 July 2023. The Arksey and O'Malley methodology for scoping reviews was used.

RESULTS

Four studies from the United States and Australia documented the impact of rural hospital or obstetric unit closures on maternal/infant health outcomes, such as increased births in hospitals without obstetric units, out-of-hospital births or babies born before arrival, preterm birth, infant mortality and sociocultural risks that contribute to clinical risk. No eligible studies investigated hospital or obstetric unit closure as a social determinant of racial disparities in rural maternal/infant health outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Despite significant racial and ethnic rural maternal health disparities, associations between rural closures and maternal health outcomes for racial and ethnic minorities are understudied. More research is needed to understand the extent to which rural closures, a social determinant of health, could disproportionately, negatively affect the health of racially and ethnically minoritized women.

IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND PATIENT CARE

Rural women have a greater risk of maternal and infant mortality and morbidity compared with urban women, and the impact of rural closures on racial and ethnic maternal health disparities is not well documented. Research about the impact of rural closures on maternal health disparities could inform policy to assure essential obstetric care is available for rural populations globally.

IMPACT

Findings provide a call to action for research to understand relationships between rural closures and racial and ethnic maternal health disparities, which is especially important for serving rural Non-Hispanic Black and American Indian/Alaska Native women.

PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION

No patient or public contribution.

Racial and ethnic disparities in reproductive medicine in the United States: a narrative review of contemporary high-quality evidence

There has been increasing debate around how or if race and ethnicity should be used in medical research-including the conceptualization of race as a biological entity, a social construct, or a proxy for racism. The objectives of this narrative review are to identify and synthesize reported racial and ethnic inequalities in obstetrics and gynecology (ob/gyn) and develop informed recommendations for racial and ethnic inequity research in ob/gyn. A reproducible search of the 8 highest impact ob/gyn journals was conducted. Articles published between January 1, 2010 and June 30, 2023 containing keywords related to racial and ethnic disparities, bias, prejudice, inequalities, and inequities were included (n=318). Data were abstracted and summarized into 4 themes: 1) access to care, 2) adherence to national guidelines, 3) clinical outcomes, and 4) clinical trial diversity. Research related to each theme was organized topically under the headings i) obstetrics, ii) reproductive medicine, iii) gynecologic cancer, and iv) other. Additionally, interactive tables were developed. These include data on study timeline, population, location, and results for every article. The tables enable readers to filter by journal, publication year, race and ethnicity, and topic. Numerous studies identified adverse reproductive outcomes among racial and ethnic minorities as compared to white patients, which persist despite adjusting for differential access to care, socioeconomic or lifestyle factors, and clinical characteristics. These include higher maternal morbidity and mortality among Black and Hispanic/Latinx patients; reduced success during fertility treatments for Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian patients; and lower survival rates and lower likelihood of receiving guideline concordant care for gynecological cancers for non-White patients. We conclude that many racial and ethnic inequities in ob/gyn cannot be fully attributed to patient characteristics or access to care. Research focused on explaining these disparities based on biological differences incorrectly reinforces the notion of race as a biological trait. More research that deconstructs race and assesses efficacy of interventions to reduce these disparities is needed.

Building Capacity of Community Health Centers to Improve the Provision of Postpartum Care Services Through Data-Driven Health Information Technology and Innovation

Maternal morbidity and mortality remain significant challenges in the United States, with substantial burden during the postpartum period. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, in partnership with the National Association of Community Health Centers, began an initiative to build capacity in Federally Qualified Health Centers to (1) improve the infrastructure for perinatal care measures and (2) use perinatal care measures to identify and address gaps in postpartum care. Two partner health center-controlled networks implemented strategies to integrate evidence-based recommendations into the clinic workflow and used data-driven health information technology (HIT) systems to improve data standardization for quality improvement of postpartum care services. Ten measures were created to capture recommended care and services. To support measure capture, a data cleaning algorithm was created to prioritize defining pregnancy episodes and delivery dates and address data inconsistencies. Quality improvement activities targeted postpartum care delivery tailored to patients and care teams. Data limitations, including inconsistencies in electronic health record documentation and data extraction practices, underscored the complexity of integrating HIT solutions into postpartum care workflows. Despite challenges, the project demonstrated continuous quality improvement to support data quality for perinatal care measures. Future solutions emphasize the need for standardized data elements, collaborative care team engagement, and iterative HIT implementation strategies to enhance perinatal care quality. Our findings highlight the potential of HIT-driven interventions to improve postpartum care within health centers, with a focus on the importance of addressing data interoperability and documentation challenges to optimize and monitor initiatives to improve postpartum health outcomes.

Optimizing Postpartum Care in Rural Communities: Insights from Women in Arizona and Implications for Policy

OBJECTIVES

Optimal postpartum care promotes healthcare utilization and outcomes. This qualitative study investigated the experiences and perceived needs for postpartum care among women in rural communities in Arizona, United States.

METHODS

We conducted in-depth interviews with thirty childbearing women and analyzed the transcripts using reflexive thematic analysis to gauge their experiences, needs, and factors affecting postpartum healthcare utilization.

RESULTS

Experiences during childbirth and multiple structural factors, including transportation, childcare services, financial constraints, and social support, played crucial roles in postpartum care utilization for childbearing people in rural communities. Access to comprehensive health information and community-level support systems were perceived as critical for optimizing postpartum care and utilization.

CONCLUSIONS FOR PRACTICE

This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders in enhancing postpartum care services for individuals in rural communities in the United States.

Differences in Perinatal Outcomes among Rural Women by County Composition

OBJECTIVE

We compared differences in perinatal outcomes among rural and nonrural women, stratified by maternal race/ethnicity. We also examined differences between majority minority rural counties with majority White rural counties.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective cohort study with 2015 national vital statistics birth certificate data. Maternal county of residence was identified, and counties with <50,000 people were designated as rural. We compared adverse perinatal outcomes between rural and nonrural residents, stratified by race/ethnicity. Adverse perinatal outcomes included primary term cesarean, preterm birth (PTB) <37 and <32 weeks, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions, infant death, small for gestational age, and Apgar's scores <7 and <3 at 5minutes. Majority-minority rural counties were defined as counties having <50% White women. We compared perinatal outcomes among this cohort to those of women from majority White rural counties. Bivariate analysis and multivariable logistic regression were performed.

RESULTS

Within the entire cohort, rural residents were more likely to be younger (age ≥35 years, 10.1 vs. 16.8%; p<0.001), Medicaid beneficiaries (50.3 vs. 44.1%; p<0.001), and uninsured (6.6 vs. 4.2%; p<0.001), and less likely to be married (57.4 vs. 60.20%; p<0.001). Rural residence was associated with Apgar's score <7 (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]=2.04; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64-2.54) and <3 (aOR=1.90; 95% CI: 1.04-3.48) among Asian women. Rural residence was also associated with PTB <37 weeks among Black (aOR=1.09; 95% CI: 1.06-1.13) and Asian women (aOR=1.16; 95% CI: 1.03-1.31). When compared with majority White rural county of residence, majority-minority rural county of residence was associated with the adverse perinatal outcomes studied.

CONCLUSION

We observed increased rates of adverse perinatal outcomes among rural women. These trends persisted in majority-minority rural. Additional study is needed to find actionable targets for improving outcomes for rural women.

KEY POINTS

· Rural county of residence was associated with lower socioeconomic markers.. · Perinatal outcomes were worse among women from rural counties.. · Differences in perinatal outcomes exist among rural women by race/ethnicity..

Mapping the intersection of social determinants of health, postpartum visit attendance, and pregnancy-related deaths: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

Maternal health outcomes in the United States raises concern due to elevated rates of pregnancy-related deaths compared to other developed and underdeveloped countries. This scoping review explores relationships between social determinants of health (SDOH), postpartum visit attendance, and pregnancy-related deaths.

METHODS

Utilizing the Arksey and O'Malley framework and PRISMA-Scr guidelines, a systematic review was conducted to identify pertinent literature.

RESULTS

Eight studies were analyzed, providing insights into SDOH, postpartum visits, and pregnancy-related deaths. The findings highlight healthcare access/quality, economic stability, education, and social/community context as influential in postpartum care utilization. Health insurance emerges a key factor for postpartum attendance.  In addition, disparities in geographic access to maternity care services were linked to pregnancy-related deaths. Social contextual factors, such as marital status and social support, exhibited varying associations with postpartum visit attendance.

CONCLUSION

While the analyzed studies provided valuable insight, there remains a gap in the literature examining all three key elements: SDOH, postpartum visit attendance, and pregnancy-related deaths. In conclusion, this scoping review highlights the vital role of addressing social determinants in improving maternal health outcomes.  Further research is necessary to better inform interventions to reduce pregnancy-related deaths.

Challenges in Conducting Clinical Trials for Preeclampsia

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review recent data describing the challenges and innovations in therapeutic research focused on the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Pregnant individuals have traditionally been excluded from therapeutic research, resulting in a paucity of innovation in therapeutics for pregnancy-specific medical conditions, especially preeclampsia. With the increased awareness of maternal morbidity and mortality, there is significant interest among researchers to expand therapeutic research in pregnancy. Several medications, including aspirin, pravastatin, metformin, and esomeprazole, which are commonly used in non-pregnant populations, are now being investigated for preeclampsia prevention. However, given the historic precedent of exclusion, along with the regulatory, ethical, and feasibility concerns that accompany this population, the study of these and novel medications has been complicated by numerous challenges. While complex, and laden with challenges, there is great ongoing need for therapeutic research to address preeclampsia. Aspirin, pravastatin, metformin, and esomeprazole have all shown promise as potential therapeutic agents; however, their use remains to be optimized, and innovative therapeutics need to be developed.

Pregnancy-related maternal mortality in the state of Georgia: Timing and causes of death

BACKGROUND

The maternal mortality rate in the United States is high and disparities among non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black women remain. In the State of Georgia, the pregnancy-related death rate is among the worst in the nation.

OBJECTIVE

To examine current pregnancy-related deaths in the State of Georgia using measures of timing and cause-specific mortality across maternal sociodemographic characteristics.

DESIGN

This cross-sectional study of pregnancy-related deaths in Georgia was based on 2016-2019 maternal mortality data obtained from the Georgia Department of Public Health.

METHODS

Our study analysis involved complete-case data of maternal deaths identified as pregnancy-related deaths (n = 129). Statistical analyses included two distinct population-level measures: (a) timing (i.e. during pregnancy, 0 to 60 days, 61 to 180 days, and 181 to 365 days postpartum) and (b) cause-specific deaths patterned by sociodemographic groups of women and by rural and urban county of residence. Categorical variables were compared using the Chi square or Fisher's exact test and presented as numbers and percentages. A post hoc power analysis was conducted to inform whether there was sufficient power to detect statistically significant effects given available sample sizes.

RESULTS

Among a total of 129 pregnancy-related deaths, 30 (23.3%) deaths occurred during pregnancy and 63 (48.8%) deaths occurred within the first 60 days postpartum. Pregnancy-related deaths were disproportionally common among non-Hispanic Black, 25 to 34 years old, and poorly educated women. Three leading underlying causes, cardiomyopathy (22.7%), hemorrhage (21.6%), and cardiovascular or coronary disease (20.4%), accounted for about 65% of all pregnancy-related deaths. Mental health conditions were common causes of death among non-Hispanic White women during pregnancy and in late postpartum.

CONCLUSION

Continued monitoring, collecting and analyzing reliable data will help identify root causes and find ways to eliminate the disproportionate burden of pregnancy-related deaths in the State of Georgia.

Telehealth Use by Pregnancy Stage Among Commercially Insured Patients in the United States, 2016-2019

Introduction: Relatively little is known about the proportion of maternal health services utilized through telehealth and whether rural-urban disparities in telehealth use exist throughout antenatal, delivery, and postpartum phases of maternal services. In this study, we describe patterns of care, including telehealth utilization, by rurality and racial/ethnic composition of the health service area during the antenatal, labor/delivery, and postpartum stages of pregnancy among commercially insured patients between 2016 and 2019. Methods: We present univariate and comparative descriptive statistics of patient and facility characteristics and site of care by the degree of rurality and racial/ethnic composition of the health service area (defined as geozips). The individual-level utilization data for 238,695 patients were aggregated to the geo-zip level (n = 404). Results: Between 2016 and 2019, 3.5% of pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum-related visits among commercially insured patients were delivered through telehealth. Telehealth use was higher in the antenatal (3.5% of claim lines) and postpartum (4.1% of claim lines) periods, compared with labor and delivery (0.7% of claim lines). We also found that the proportion of telehealth services (of total services billed) increased with the share of Black and Latinx residents at the geozip level. Discussion: Our findings highlight disparities in telehealth use, consistent with findings from studies using different data sources and time periods. Future research is needed to examine whether the relative differences in proportion of telehealth services, even if small, are associated with telehealth capacity in the hospital or community and why the proportion of telehealth services differs across community-level characteristics, specifically rurality and proportion of Black and Latinx residents.

Self-Reported Medication Use Across Racial and Rural or Urban Subgroups of People Who Are Pregnant in the United States: Decentralized App-Based Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Maternal health outcomes have been underresearched due to people who are pregnant being underrepresented or excluded from studies based on their status as a vulnerable study population. Based on the available evidence, Black people who are pregnant have dramatically higher maternal morbidity and mortality rates compared to other racial and ethnic groups. However, insights into prenatal care-including the use of medications, immunizations, and prenatal vitamins-are not well understood for pregnant populations, particularly those that are underrepresented in biomedical research. Medication use has been particularly understudied in people who are pregnant; even though it has been shown that up to 95% of people who are pregnant take at least 1 or more medications. Understanding gaps in use could help identify ways to reduce maternal disparities and optimize maternal health outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to characterize and compare the use of prenatal vitamins, immunizations, and commonly used over-the-counter and prescription medications among people who are pregnant, those self-identifying as Black versus non-Black, and those living in rural versus urban regions in the United States.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, decentralized study of 4130 pregnant study participants who answered survey questionnaires using a mobile research app that was only available on iOS (Apple Inc) devices. All people who were pregnant, living in the United States, and comfortable with reading and writing in English were eligible. The study was conducted in a decentralized fashion with the use of a research app to facilitate enrollment using an eConsent and self-reported data collection.

RESULTS

Within the study population, the use of prenatal vitamins, antiemetics, antidepressants, and pain medication varied significantly among different subpopulations underrepresented in biomedical research. Black participants reported significantly lower frequencies of prenatal vitamin use compared to non-Black participants (P<.001). The frequency of participants who were currently receiving treatment for anxiety and depression was also lower among Black and rural groups compared to their non-Black and urban counterparts, respectively. There was significantly lower use of antidepressants (P=.002) and antiemetics (P=.02) among Black compared to non-Black participants. While prenatal vitamin use was lower among participants in rural areas, the difference between rural and urban groups did not reach statistical significance (P=.08). There were no significant differences in vaccine uptake for influenza or tetanus-diphtheria-pertussis (TDaP) across race, ethnicity, rural, or urban status.

CONCLUSIONS

A prospective, decentralized app-based study demonstrated significantly lower use of prenatal vitamins, antiemetics, and antidepressants among Black pregnant participants. Additionally, significantly fewer Black and rural participants reported receiving treatment for anxiety and depression during pregnancy. Future research dedicated to identifying the root mechanisms of these differences can help improve maternal health outcomes, specifically for diverse communities.

United States rural residence is associated with increased acute maternal end-organ injury or mortality after birth: a retrospective multi-state analysis, 2007-2018

BACKGROUND

Geographic-based healthcare determinants and choice of anesthesia have been shown to be associated with maternal morbidity and mortality. We explored whether differences in maternal outcomes based on maternal residence, and anesthesia type for cesarean and vaginal birth, exist.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective multi-state analysis; patient residence was the predictor variable of interest and a composite binary measure of maternal end-organ injury or inpatient mortality was the primary outcome. Our secondary outcomes included a binary measure of anesthesia type for cesarean birth (general vs. neuraxial [NA]) and NA analgesia for vaginal birth (no NA vs. NA). Our predictor variable of interest was patient residency (reference category central metropolitan areas of >1 million population), fringe large metropolitan county, medium metropolitan, small metropolitan, micropolitan, and non-metropolitan or micropolitan county.

RESULTS

Women residing in micropolitan (OR 1.17; 95% CI 1.09 to 1.27) and non-metropolitan or micropolitan counties (OR 1.14; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.24) had the highest adjusted increased odds of adverse maternal outcomes. Those residing in suburban, medium, and small metropolitan areas underwent general anesthesia less often during cesarean births than those residing in urban areas. Patients residing in micropolitan rural (OR 2.07; 95% CI 2.02 to 2.12) and non-metropolitan or micropolitan (2.25; 95% CI 2.16 to 2.34) counties underwent vaginal births without NA analgesia more than twice as often as those residing in urban areas.

CONCLUSIONS

Rural-urban disparities in maternal end-organ damage and mortality exist and anesthesia choice may play an important role in these disparate outcomes.

Leveraging Population Health Datasets to Advance Maternal Health Research

BACKGROUND

Maternal mortality is a public health crisis in the U.S., with no improvement in decades and worsening disparities during COVID-19. Social determinants of health (SDoH) shape risk for morbidity and mortality but maternal structural and SDoH are under-researched using population health data. To expand knowledge of those at risk for or who have experienced maternal morbidity and inform clinical, policy, and legislative action, creative use of and leveraging existing population health datasets is logical and needed.

METHODS

We review a sample of population health datasets and highlight recommended changes to the datasets or data collection to better inform existing gaps in maternal health research.

RESULTS

Across each of the datasets we found insufficient representation of pregnant and postpartum individuals and provide recommendations to enhance these datasets to inform maternal health research.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnant and postpartum individuals should be oversampled in population health data to facilitate rapid policy and program evaluation. Postpartum individuals should no longer be hidden within population health datasets. Individuals with pregnancies resulting in outcomes other than livebirth (e.g., abortion, stillbirth, miscarriage) should be included, or asked about these experiences.

Screening for Social Determinants of Health During Prenatal Care: Why, What, and How

As more data from maternal mortality reviews are available, it has become clear that social determinants of health have major impacts on the morbidity and mortality of mothers and infants. The ability to verify and address these requires an effective screening process during prenatal care. The challenges include selection of an appropriate tool for use in pregnancy; incorporating the tool into the clinical flow to ensure screening of all pregnant patients; and developing an approach to address the issues, be it providing emotional support, management within the clinic, or referring to outside resources.

Social Vulnerability and Initiation of Pharmacotherapy for Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in a Medicaid Population

OBJECTIVE

Our study examines the association between social vulnerability index (SVI) and pharmacotherapy initiation for gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

We studied a retrospective cohort of pregnant patients with GDM, enrolled in Tennessee Medicaid, who gave birth between 2007 and 2019. Enrollment files were linked to birth and death certificates, state hospitalization registries, and pharmacy claims. SVI, measured at the community level and determined by residential census tract, ranged from 0 to 100 (low to high vulnerability). Multivariable logistic regression assessed the association between SVI and the odds of initiating the most common pharmacotherapies for GDM-insulin, glyburide, or metformin-and adjusted for relevant covariates. SVI was modeled with restricted cubic splines to account for nonlinear associations, using the median Tennessee SVI as a reference. Secondary analysis assessed associations with the SVI subthemes.

RESULTS

Among 33,291 patients with GDM, 21.7% (7,209) initiated pharmacotherapy during pregnancy. Patients from areas with higher SVI were more likely to be non-Hispanic Black with higher body mass index, whereas those with lower SVI were more likely to be nulliparous. Multivariable modeling demonstrated a complex nonlinear association between SVI and GDM pharmacotherapy initiation, relative to the reference. Higher SVI was associated with elevated odds of GDM pharmacotherapy initiation (e.g., odds ratio 1.11 [95% confidence interval 1.02-1.22] for SVI 80) and low to medium SVI had variable nonsignificant associations with GDM pharmacotherapy initiation, relative to the reference (lower odds of initiation for values 25-50, higher odds of initiation for values < 25). Secondary analysis demonstrated a nonlinear association between subtheme 3 and the odds of GDM pharmacotherapy initiation.

CONCLUSION

Social vulnerability is associated with initiation of pharmacotherapy for GDM, highlighting the possible role of social determinants of health in achieving glycemic control.

Rural and Urban Differences in Insurance Coverage at Prepregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum

OBJECTIVE

To measure insurance coverage at prepregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and insurance coverage continuity across these periods among rural and urban U.S. residents.

METHODS

We performed a pooled, cross-sectional analysis of survey data from 154,992 postpartum individuals in 43 states and two jurisdictions that participated in the 2016-2019 PRAMS (Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System). We calculated unadjusted estimates of insurance coverage (Medicaid, commercial, or uninsured) during three periods (prepregnancy, birth, and postpartum), as well as insurance continuity across these periods among rural and urban U.S. residents. We conducted subgroup analyses to compare uninsurance rates among rural and urban residents by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics. We used logistic regression models to generate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for each comparison.

RESULTS

Rural residents experienced greater odds of uninsurance in each period and continuous uninsurance across all three periods, compared with their urban counterparts. Uninsurance was higher among rural residents compared with urban residents during prepregnancy (15.4% vs 12.1%; aOR 1.19, 95% CI 1.11-1.28], at birth (4.6% vs 2.8%; aOR 1.60, 95% CI 1.41-1.82), and postpartum (12.7% vs 9.8%, aOR 1.27, 95% CI 1.17-1.38]. In each period, rural residents who were non-Hispanic White, married, and with intended pregnancies experienced greater adjusted odds of uninsurance compared with their urban counterparts. Rural-urban differences in uninsurance persisted across both Medicaid expansion and non-expansion states, and among those with varying levels of education and income. Rural inequities in perinatal coverage were experienced by Hispanic, English-speaking, and Indigenous individuals during prepregnancy and at birth.

CONCLUSION

Perinatal uninsurance disproportionately affects rural residents, compared with urban residents, in the 43 states examined. Differential insurance coverage may have important implications for addressing rural-urban inequities in maternity care access and maternal health.

Rural-Urban Disparities in Adverse Maternal Outcomes in the United States, 2016-2019

Objectives. To describe differences in maternal admissions to the intensive care unit (ICU) and mortality in rural versus urban areas in the United States. Methods. We performed a nationwide analysis and calculated age-standardized rates and rate ratios (RRs) of maternal ICU admission and mortality per 100 000 live births between 2016 and 2019 in rural versus urban areas. Results. From 2016 to 2019, there was no significant increase in age-standardized rates of maternal ICU admissions in rural (170.6-192.3) or urban (161.7-172.4) areas, with a significantly higher rate, albeit a relatively small difference, in rural versus urban areas (2019 RR = 1.14; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04, 1.20). Maternal mortality increased in both rural (66.9-81.7 deaths per 100 000 live births) and urban (38.1-42.3) areas and was nearly 2 times higher in rural areas (2019 RR = 1.93; 95% CI = 1.71, 2.17). Conclusions. Pregnant individuals in rural areas are at higher risk for ICU admission and mortality than are their urban counterparts. Significant increases in maternal mortality occurred in rural and urban areas. Public Health Implications. Public health efforts need to focus on resource-limited rural areas to mitigate geographic disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(2): 224-227.https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2022.307134).

The maternal health of American Indian and Alaska Native people: A scoping review

Indigenous people in the United States experience disadvantage in multiple domains of health. Yet, their maternal health receives limited research attention. With a focus on empirical research findings, we conduct a scoping review to address two questions: 1) what does the literature tell us about the patterns and prevalence of maternal mortality and morbidity of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) people? and 2) how do existing studies explain these patterns? A search of CINAHL, Embase and Medline yielded 4757 English-language articles, with 66 eligible for close review. Of these, few focused specifically on AI/AN people's maternal health. AI/AN people experience higher levels of maternal mortality and morbidity than non-Hispanic White people, with estimates that vary substantially across samples and geography. Explanations for the maternal health of AI/AN people focused on individual factors such as poverty, cultural beliefs, and access to healthcare (e.g. lack of insurance). Studies rarely addressed the varied historical and structural contexts of AI/AN tribal nations, such as harms associated with colonization and economic marginalization. Research for and by Indigenous communities and nations is needed to redress the effective erasure of AI/AN people's maternal health experiences and to advance solutions that will promote their health and well-being.

Eliminating Disparities in Cardiovascular Disease for Black Women: JACC Review Topic of the Week

Black women are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease with an excess burden of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. In addition, the racialized structure of the United States shapes cardiovascular disease research and health care delivery for Black women. Given the indisputable evidence of the disparities in health care delivery, research, and cardiovascular outcomes, there is an urgent need to develop and implement effective and sustainable solutions to advance cardiovascular health equity for Black women while considering their ethnic diversity, regions of origin, and acculturation. Innovative and culturally tailored strategies that consider the differential impact of social determinants of health and the unique challenges that shape their health-seeking behaviors should be implemented. A patient-centered framework that involves collaboration among clinicians, health care systems, professional societies, and government agencies is required to improve cardiovascular outcomes for Black women. The time is "now" to achieve health equity for all Black women.

Addressing Racial Disparities in Pregnancy-Related Deaths: An Analysis of Maternal Mortality-Related Federal Legislation, 2017-2021

There has been increasing national attention to the issue of racial disparities in pregnancy-related deaths. Federal legislation can support approaches at multiple levels of intervention to improve maternal health. As part of the CDC Policy Academy, a team of CDC staff completed a policy analysis to determine the approaches addressed in federal legislation to reduce racial disparities in pregnancy-related deaths. We analyzed federal maternal mortality legislation introduced January 2017 through December 2021. Common approaches addressed by the legislation were categorized into themes and reviewed for their alignment with approaches identified in clinical and public health literature to reduce pregnancy-related deaths, with an emphasis on social determinants of health (SDOH) approaches and reducing racial disparities. Thirty-seven unduplicated bills addressed pregnancy-related deaths, including 27 House or Senate bills that were introduced but not passed, 6 resolutions highlighting the maternal health crisis, 2 bills that passed the House only, and 2 bills enacted into law (Preventing Maternal Deaths Act of 2018 and Protecting Moms Who Served Act). The most common themes mentioned in federal legislation were improving maternal health care, addressing health inequities and SDOH, enhancing data, and promoting women's health. Legislation focused on health inequities and SDOH emphasized implicit bias training and improving SDOH, including racism and other social factors. The reviewed federal legislation reflected common clinical and public health approaches to prevent pregnancy-related deaths, including a significant focus on reducing bias and improving SDOH to address racial disparities.

Rural-Urban Differences in Maternal Mortality Trends in the United States, 1999-2017: Accounting for the Impact of the Pregnancy Status Checkbox

It has been difficult to measure rural-urban differences in maternal mortality ratios (MMRs) in the United States in recent years because of the incremental adoption of a pregnancy status checkbox on the standard US death certificate. Using 1999-2017 mortality and birth data, we examined the impact of the pregnancy checkbox on MMRs according to urbanicity of residence (large urban area, medium/small urban area, or rural area), using log-binomial regression models to predict trends that would have been observed if all states had adopted the checkbox as of 1999. Implementation of the checkbox resulted in an average estimated increase of 7.5 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births (95% confidence interval (CI): 6.3, 8.8) in large urban areas (a 76% increase), 11.6 (95% CI: 9.6, 13.6) in medium/small urban areas (a 113% increase), and 16.6 (95% CI: 12.9, 20.3) in rural areas (a 107% increase), compared with MMRs prior to the checkbox. Assuming that all states had the checkbox as of 1999, demographic-factor-adjusted predicted MMRs increased in rural areas, declined in large urban areas, and did not change in medium/small urban areas. However, trends and urban-rural differences were substantially attenuated when analyses were limited to direct/specific causes of maternal death, which are probably subject to less misclassification. Accurate ascertainment of maternal deaths, particularly in rural areas, is important for reducing disparities in maternal mortality.

County-Level Associations Between Pregnancy-Related Mortality Ratios and Contextual Sociospatial Indicators

OBJECTIVE

To characterize county-level differences in pregnancy-related mortality as a function of sociospatial indicators.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional multilevel analysis of all pregnancy-related deaths and all live births with available ZIP code or county data in the Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System during 2011-2016 for non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic (all races), and non-Hispanic White women aged 15-44 years. The exposures included 31 conceptually-grounded, county-specific sociospatial indicators that were collected from publicly available data sources and categorized into domains of demographic; general, reproductive, and behavioral health; social capital and support; and socioeconomic contexts. We calculated the absolute difference of county-level pregnancy-related mortality ratios (deaths per 100,000 live births) per 1-unit increase in the median absolute difference between women living in counties with higher compared with lower levels of each sociospatial indicator overall and stratified by race and ethnicity.

RESULTS

Pregnancy-related mortality varied across counties and by race and ethnicity. Many sociospatial indicators were associated with county-specific pregnancy-related mortality ratios independent of maternal age, population size, and Census region. Across domains, the most harmful indicators were percentage of low-birth-weight births (absolute ratio difference [RD] 6.44; 95% CI 5.36-7.51), percentage of unemployed adults (RD 4.98; 95% CI 3.91-6.05), and food insecurity (RD 4.92; 95% CI 4.14-5.70). The most protective indicators were higher median household income (RD -2.76; 95% CI -3.28 to -2.24), percentage of college-educated adults (RD -2.28; 95% CI -2.81 to -1.75), and percentage of owner-occupied households (RD -1.66; 95% CI -2.29 to -1.03). The magnitude of these associations varied by race and ethnicity.

CONCLUSION

This analysis identified sociospatial indicators of pregnancy-related mortality and showed an association between pregnancy-related deaths and place of residence overall and stratified by race and ethnicity. Understanding county-level context associated with pregnancy-related mortality may be an important step towards building public health evidence to inform action to reduce pregnancy-related mortality at local levels.

Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy and Mortality at Delivery Hospitalization - United States, 2017-2019

Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDPs), defined as prepregnancy (chronic) or pregnancy-associated hypertension, are common pregnancy complications in the United States.* HDPs are strongly associated with severe maternal complications, such as heart attack and stroke (1), and are a leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the United States.† CDC analyzed nationally representative data from the National Inpatient Sample to calculate the annual prevalence of HDP among delivery hospitalizations and by maternal characteristics, and the percentage of in-hospital deaths with an HDP diagnosis code documented. During 2017-2019, the prevalence of HDP among delivery hospitalizations increased from 13.3% to 15.9%. The prevalence of pregnancy-associated hypertension increased from 10.8% in 2017 to 13.0% in 2019, while the prevalence of chronic hypertension increased from 2.0% to 2.3%. Prevalence of HDP was highest among delivery hospitalizations of non-Hispanic Black or African American (Black) women, non-Hispanic American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) women, and women aged ≥35 years, residing in zip codes in the lowest median household income quartile, or delivering in hospitals in the South or the Midwest Census regions. Among deaths that occurred during delivery hospitalization, 31.6% had any HDP documented. Clinical guidance for reducing complications from HDP focuses on prompt identification and preventing progression to severe maternal complications through timely treatment (1). Recommendations for identifying and monitoring pregnant persons with hypertension include measuring blood pressure throughout pregnancy,§ including self-monitoring. Severe complications and mortality from HDP are preventable with equitable implementation of strategies to identify and monitor persons with HDP (1) and quality improvement initiatives to improve prompt treatment and increase awareness of urgent maternal warning signs (2).

Pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related deaths in the United States military, 2003-2014

BACKGROUND

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported a steady increase in the US pregnancy-related mortality ratio since national surveillance began in 1987, although trends are partially induced by concurrent improvements in the identification of pregnancy-related deaths. No previous work has evaluated pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related deaths among active-duty service members, a population with comprehensive health coverage and stable employment.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess trends and variations in pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related deaths in the US military.

STUDY DESIGN

Live births to active-duty service members were captured in Department of Defense Birth and Infant Health Research program data from 2003 to 2014. Pregnancy-associated deaths (deaths temporally related to pregnancy from any cause) were identified through 1 year after pregnancy end date using National Death Index Plus data from the Joint Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs Suicide Data Repository. Pregnancy-associated deaths were classified as pregnancy-related (causally related to pregnancy) based on cause-of-death codes in the National Death Index Plus data, administrative medical encounter data, and medical record review. Pregnancy-related deaths were reported including and excluding deaths from suicide and unintentional overdose. Mortality ratios (deaths per 100,000 live births) were reported overall, triennially, and by selected characteristics; the relative contribution of each cause of death to all pregnancy-associated deaths was reported overall and by age, race and ethnicity, and marital status. Timing of death relative to pregnancy end date was assessed by cause of death.

RESULTS

A total of 179,252 live births occurred to active-duty service members from 2003 to 2014. Pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related mortality ratios were 41.3 (95% confidence interval, 32.4-51.8) and 18.4 (95% confidence interval, 12.7-25.9), respectively. Excluding deaths from suicide and unintentional overdose, the pregnancy-related mortality ratio was 11.2 (95% confidence interval, 6.8-17.2). Deaths from suicide and unintentional overdose composed a larger proportion of pregnancy-related deaths over time and accounted for 17.6% of all pregnancy-associated deaths. Deaths from other pregnancy-related causes accounted for a greater share of deaths among older vs younger service members (≥30 years: 41.2%; 18-29 years: 22.8%) and non-Hispanic Black vs White service members (33.3% vs 24.1%). Pregnancy-related deaths, excluding suicide and unintentional overdose, were more likely to occur within 42 days of pregnancy end date; in contrast, deaths from suicide, overdose, assault, and undetermined intent were more likely to occur between 42 days and 1 year after pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy-associated and pregnancy-related deaths varied over time and by age and race and ethnicity. Suicide and overdose are major recent causes of pregnancy-related death among active-duty service members.

Barriers and solutions to developing and maintaining research networks during a pandemic: An example from the iELEVATE perinatal network

Introduction

To improve maternal health outcomes, increased diversity is needed among pregnant people in research studies and community surveillance. To expand the pool, we sought to develop a network encompassing academic and community obstetrics clinics. Typical challenges in developing a network include site identification, contracting, onboarding sites, staff engagement, participant recruitment, funding, and institutional review board approvals. While not insurmountable, these challenges became magnified as we built a research network during a global pandemic. Our objective is to describe the framework utilized to resolve pandemic-related issues.

Methods

We developed a framework for site-specific adaptation of the generalized study protocol. Twice monthly video meetings were held between the lead academic sites to identify local challenges and to generate ideas for solutions. We identified site and participant recruitment challenges and then implemented solutions tailored to the local workflow. These solutions included the use of an electronic consent and videoconferences with local clinic leadership and staff. The processes for network development and maintenance changed to address issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, aspects of the sample processing/storage and data collection elements were held constant between sites.

Results

Adapting our consenting approach enabled maintaining study enrollment during the pandemic. The pandemic amplified issues related to contracting, onboarding, and IRB approval. Maintaining continuity in sample management and clinical data collection allowed for pooling of information between sites.

Conclusions

Adaptability is key to maintaining network sites. Rapidly changing guidelines for beginning and continuing research during the pandemic required frequent intra- and inter-institutional communication to navigate.

The MI-PHOTOS Project: Understanding the Health and Wellbeing of Rural Historically Marginalized Mothers Through Photovoice

Despite the persistent health inequities faced by rural women in the United States, few researchers have partnered with women in rural communities to co-create sustainable change. To fill this gap, Mothers Improving Pregnancy and Postpartum Health Outcomes Through stOry Sharing (MI-PHOTOS) employed a community-based participatory research (CBPR) approach by partnering with mothers, community leaders, and community-based organizations in Robeson County, North Carolina, a rural, racially diverse county. The project's aims were (a) to promote maternal health by listening to mothers' stories of having and raising children in their community and (b) to develop a shared understanding of these mothers' strengths and challenges. MI-PHOTOS utilized photovoice, an exploratory and qualitative CBPR methodology. Grounded theory guided data analysis. During photovoice discussions, conversation focused on maternal experiences and evoked strengths, facilitators, and barriers impacting maternal health. Themes focused on (a) MI-PHOTOS serving as a social support group for the community and family stressors that mothers faced and (b) the necessity of professional support programs. Three overarching findings emerged during this process: (a) MI-PHOTOS as an informal support group, (b) mental health stigmatization, and (c) the need to bridge home visiting programs with peer and confidential therapeutic services. Future work should incorporate mothers' and communities' strengths into program development by drawing on existing home visiting programs, identifying opportunities for peer-support, and creating referral networks for individual, confidential therapeutic services. Through continued community partnership, we can generate fuller understandings of mothers' experiences of having and raising children and ultimately promote health equity among rural mothers.

Enhancing Reviews and Surveillance to Eliminate Maternal Mortality

Multisectoral investments over the past decade have accelerated the growth of Maternal Mortality Review Committee (MMRC) programs across the United States. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched the Enhancing Reviews and Surveillance to Eliminate Maternal Mortality (ERASE MM) Initiative in 2019. Under ERASE MM, CDC directly funds 24 U.S. jurisdictions supporting MMRCs in 25 states. With increased investment in programs nationally, the CDC has designed a performance management framework to identify areas for improvement or sustained achievement and standardize measurement of key process benchmarks across programs. This article presents a report on the baseline measures collected through this performance management approach and suggests key partnerships required to continue to accelerate progress toward the elimination of preventable maternal mortality in the United States.