Data from the newly released Maternal and Infant Health in Montgomery County from 2012 to 2021 “reveals great disparities of pregnancy-related outcomes among population subgroups based on race/ethnicity and geographic areas.”
The 102-page report was prepared by the county’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Public Health Services Health Planning and Epidemiology.
According to the report, the county’s overall poverty level stands at 4.6%, which is lower than Maryland’s 6.6% and the United States’ 9.5% rate.
Adolescent birth rates, which involve girls aged 15 to 19 years, decreased during the time covered in this report. Hispanics here have the highest adolescent birth rates, but it is decreasing.
The percentage of births that had delayed or no prenatal care decreased between 2012 and 2020 and then increased in 2021 to 7.1%.
Infant and fetal deaths in the county remain lower than throughout Maryland, with non-Hispanic Blacks having the highest rate at 9.8%.
Non-Hispanic Blacks and Hispanics are at higher risk of maternal morbidity than other mothers in the county.
Since 2014, Montgomery County has been “consistently ranked one of the healthiest counties in the U.S.,” according to the report. “However, ongoing efforts are needed to make improvements in the areas of access to health care, health inequities, and unhealthy behaviors.”
The birth rate continues to decrease in the county, state and country, according to the report.
“Montgomery County’s new report on maternal and infant health shows us the progress we’ve made and the areas that still need serious attention,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “While we outperform State and national averages, that alone isn’t enough—we’re focused on closing the gaps we see, especially when it comes to outcomes for our non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic communities.”
Elrich added, “Every mother and child deserve a healthy start, and our commitment is to make that a reality for all families in Montgomery County.”
Also, according to the report, the population here has become more diverse over time. The non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic populations have increased while the non-Hispanic White population has decreased.
“DHHS programs play a significant role in providing education and services to reduce adverse pregnancy-related outcomes and improve maternal and infant health in the County,” said Kisha Davis, County health officer. “The information in this report will help us determine where to enhance services so we can effectively meet the public health needs of Montgomery County residents.”
