Combatting maternal and infant mortality in the black community remains an important goal for the County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
This Sunday, several DHHS programs will host an event at the White Oak Community Recreation Center in Silver Spring to share resources and bring attention to the problem.
The ‘Right from the Start’ event will run from noon to 3 p.m.
Distressing Statistics
Recent statistics show black expectant mothers in Maryland are three times more likely to die during pregnancy than other races. Black infants are two times more likely to die before their first birthday in the County.
“Learning about and getting proper prenatal care is critical for all parents and families,” said County Executive Marc Elrich.
“This is a life-or-death issue. Infants who do not receive proper prenatal care are three times more likely to have a low birth weight and are five times more likely to die in infancy.Our prenatal programs will help reduce disparities, improve birth outcomes and make sure every child is taken care of right from the start of life,” Elrich added.
County Programs
The County has two specific programs to help African American mothers care for their infants when they are first born and to provide pre-natal care for mothers-to-be. They include the SMILE (Start More Infants Living Equally Healthy) initiative and the Babies Born Healthy Program.
Sunday’s event will mark the third year for the ‘Right from the Start’ program. It is free; however, advance registration is required.
“Families who attend can learn about our program and receive information on preconception health because we want to ensure that women know what to do before they get pregnant. Prenatal health is important as well. We want to make sure expectant mothers take any vitamins they need. We want to make sure they are eating right, abstain from drugs and alcohol and pay attention to their bodies,” said Angeline Bell, nurse manager at the Babies Born Healthy program.
Families also can learn about postpartum depression. “African American women are at high risk for postpartum depression. They need to know how to recognize it, and learn where to go for treatment and support,” Bell said.
Other topics that will be addressed include:
- Breastfeeding
- Community support for families
- Doula Support
- Developmental milestones
For more information or for help registering for Sunday’s event, call 240-777-3118.
