The Number of Babies In the U.K. Surviving Birth Has Dramatically Increased

From 2013 to 2016, baby mortality rates have dropped in the U.K. Perinatal deaths (stillborns and neonatal deaths combined) have dropped from 6.04 to 5.64 per 1,000, representing about 300 fewer baby deaths altogether. There were 200 fewer stillbirths, and 100 fewer neonatal deaths (defined as a baby that dies within four weeks of birth). The stillbirth rate for twins has almost halved since 2014, and neonatal deaths among twins has reduced by almost a third in the same period.

The MBRRACE-UK Perinatal Mortality Surveillance Report — the fourth of its kind — recommends renewed efforts to improve healthcare for mothers and babies through public health initiatives that reduce the impact of known risk factors for stillbirths and neonatal deaths, such as smoking and obesity.

GET MORE GOOD NEWS

This story was originally featured in Issue 06 of the Goodnewspaper.

To get each issue of the Goodnewspaper delivered to your mailbox, join thousands of people by subscribing today.

You can also get good news delivered to your inbox every week by subscribing to the Goodnewsletter.