State infant mortality rate down

California’s infant mortality rate in 2010 was the fourth-lowest in the nation and a record low for the state.

Data released by the California Department of Public Health showed a decrease from 4.9 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2009 to 4.7 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2010, according to U-T San Diego. The most significant decline in infant mortality was among African-Americans, dropping from 10.6 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2009 to 9.5 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2010.

One of the factors contributing to the improved rate was a decline in the percentage of babies born earlier than 37 weeks.

“Optimal infant health outcomes are influenced by a woman’s health even before she becomes pregnant, including avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs, maintaining a healthful weight, and taking folic acid supplements,” said Dr. Ron Chapman, director of the California Department of Public Health.