In 2024, the U.S. maternal mortality rate was 17.9 deaths per 100,000 live births — the lowest level since 2018, according to a CDC report published March 4.
Five notes:
1. In 2024, there were 649 maternal deaths in the U.S., translating to a mortality rate of 17.9 per 100,000 births. Maternal deaths are defined as those that occur while a woman is pregnant or within 42 days of pregnancy termination.
2. This marks the lowest maternal mortality rate in the U.S. since 2018, when the rate was 17.4 deaths per 100,000 births. That year saw 658 maternal deaths nationwide.
3. Black women experienced the highest maternal mortality rate at 44.8 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared with 18.1 for Asian women, 14.2 for white women and 12.1 for Hispanic women.
4. By age, women 40 and older had the highest maternal mortality rate at 62.3 deaths per 100,000 live births. The rate was 16.5 for women ages 25-39 and 13.7 for women younger than 25.
5. The latest data comes as hospitals and policymakers grapple with persistent challenges in U.S. maternal health, including widening disparities in outcomes and gaps in access to obstetrical care. The U.S. still has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations, and health systems are increasingly investing in leadership roles and care models aimed at improving outcomes and expanding access to services.
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.