The state of Tennessee has seen a decline in fetal mortality rates over the past decade, but it still remains among the highest in the nation. In response to this issue, the Department of Health has launched a new app-based maternal health initiative aimed at helping pregnant patients track fetal movement, which can be an early indicator of fetal distress.
While fetal mortality rates have decreased by 18% in the past 10 years, there has been a slight increase since the pandemic. Stillbirth rates in Tennessee continue to exceed the national average, with some counties experiencing rates more than twice the national average.
Black women in Tennessee have been disproportionately affected, with the highest rates of fetal deaths during pregnancy. Additionally, patients with syphilis infections have a significantly higher fetal mortality rate compared to those without the disease.
To address these high stillborn rates, the health department has introduced a new campaign called “Count the Kicks,” which includes a mobile application for pregnant patients to track fetal activity. This initiative aims to prevent stillbirths by monitoring fetal movements, as changes in movement can be a sign of pregnancy complications.
Dr. Ralph Alvarado, commissioner of the health department, emphasized the importance of preventing these tragedies and highlighted the need to address underlying factors contributing to fetal mortality rates, such as lack of prenatal care and health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups.
While there is existing data on the causes of fetal deaths, there are gaps in information that hinder a comprehensive understanding of Tennessee’s high fetal mortality rates. The department is working to address these challenges and improve outcomes for pregnant patients in the state.
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