09/01/2026
NHSA Proclaims September as National Infant Mortality Awareness Month Washington, DC –
The National Healthy Start Association ( (NHSA) today reaffirms September as National Infant Mortality Awareness Month (NIMAM), a national observance dedicated to raising awareness about infant mortality, promoting solutions to improve birth outcomes, and advancing health outcomes for mothers, babies, and families.
"NHSA has recognized September as National Infant Mortality Awareness Month since 2007," said Deborah L. Frazier, NHSA Chief Executive Officer. "Each year, NIMAM serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, far too many babies in the United States do not live to see their first birthday. We remain committed to supporting communities, families, and partners working to ensure every baby has a healthy start in life."
Frazier continued, "Infant mortality remains a serious public health issue in the United States. Although rates have declined over time, the U.S. continues to experience higher infant mortality rates than many other high-income countries. This is unacceptable, and it is a challenge that we can and must address together."
The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that the 2024 U.S. infant mortality rate was approximately 5.5 infant deaths per 1,000 live births, with provisional estimates indicating a continued decline to 5.3 deaths per 1,000 live births.
According to the CDC and international comparisons from the OECD Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the United States continues to have a higher infant mortality rate than many European nations, including Finland, Sweden, Norway, Germany, and the Netherlands.
The leading causes of infant death in the United States include birth defects, preterm birth and low birth weight, Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), unintentional injuries, and maternal pregnancy complications.
Many communities experience persistent high rates of infant mortality. These differences in outcomes are driven by a complex combination of social, economic, environmental, and health care.
NIMAM is part of NHSA's broader "Celebrate Day 366... Every Baby Deserves a Chance" campaign, which encourages individuals, organizations, and policymakers to take action to reduce preventable infant deaths and support the Healthy People 2030 goal of improving the health and well-being of women, infants, children, families, and communities. Through awareness, advocacy, education, and community engagement, NHSA and its partners continue to work toward a future where every baby has the opportunity to celebrate a first birthday.
Throughout September, NHSA will share educational resources, data, advocacy opportunities, and ways communities can join the movement to reduce infant mortality and advance maternal and infant health nationwide.
About the National Healthy Start Association
The National Healthy Start Association (NHSA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving birth outcomes and reducing differences in outcomes among communities in maternal and infant health. NHSA supports Healthy Start programs and maternal and child health leaders across the nation through advocacy, education, training, and community engagement.
Visit NHSA's NIMAM webpage https://www.nationalhealthystart.org/celebrate-day-366/ for resources to raise awareness.
