This data is from the CDC's (Center for Disease Control) National Center for Health Statistics based on the latest statistics available from 2003. The infant death rate has not changed significantly in 2003. Overall the infant mortality rate was 6.85 infant deaths per 1,000 live births.
In 2003 there were 28,025 infant deaths from all causes.
The 10 leading causes of death are listed below. The remaining causes classified as "All other causes" accounted for 8,796 deaths.
1. Congenital malformation, deformations and chromosomal abnormalities
- Congenital Malformations accounted for 5,621 deaths.
- Congenital Malformations are any malformation which is noticed at birth, whether the result of a genetic (inherited) or environmental cause.
2. Disorders relating to short gestation and low birth weight (low birthweight)
- Low Birth Weight accounted for 4,849 deaths.
- Low birth Weight is a weight at birth which is less than 2,500 grams (5 pounds, 8 ounces), regardless of the period of gestation.
Short gestation is a length of pregnancy less than the normal nine months.
4. Newborn affected by maternal complications of pregnancy (maternal complications)
- Maternal complications accounted for 1,710 deaths.
- Maternal complications are problems with the pregnancy or delivery that affect the mother.
5. Newborn affected by complications of placenta, cord and membranes
- Cord and placental complications accounted for 1,099 deaths.
- The Umbilical Cord connects the mother with the growing fetus at the placenta. The umbilical cord brings oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and takes away waste such as carbon dioxide.
- The Placenta
supplies the fetus with the blood supply and nutrients necessary for survival.
6. Accidents (unintentional injuries)
- Accidents or unintentional injuries accounted for 945 deaths.
Note: The link provides goes to the beginning of the Injury Reference list within the ADAM Healthcare Center.
9. Neonatal hemorrhage
- Neonatal hemorrhage accounted for 649 deaths.
- Hemorrhage is massive, heavy or uncontrollable bleeding. Bleeding into the brain, also known as an intraventricular hemorrhage, is a one of the potential complication with a premature birth.
10. Diseases of the circulatory system
- Diseases of the circulatory system accounted for 591 deaths.
- The Circulatory System consists of the heart and blood vessels, and the circulation of blood.
