Black women in Ohio 2.2 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes, data shows

According to the most-recent data, Black women in Ohio are 2.2 times more likely to die from a cause related to pregnancy and have a 1.85 times higher rate of maternal morbidity (i.e., health problems related to pregnancy and childbirth) than white women.
 
Differences in healthcare access and conditions such as housing, transportation and income, as well as the cumulative impacts of toxic stress and discrimination, all contribute to stark disparities in maternal outcomes across the state.
 
Improving maternal health and eliminating disparities are priorities of the Ohio Department of Health’s 2020-2022 State Health Improvement Plan.
 
Next week is the fifth annual Black Maternal Health Week, an event that coincides with National Minority Health Month. As part of its annual recognition of Minority Health Month, the Ohio Commission on Minority Health has released an extensive calendar of events. Throughout the month, HPIO is releasing new data graphics exploring health disparities in the state. More information and resources about health equity in Ohio are available on HPIO’s website.
 
HPIO plans to release a fact sheet on maternal mortality and morbidity in Ohio later this month.