Panel 1: Right! From the Start

Cutrer Ballroom

Poor birth outcomes are an important indicator of broader population health and wellbeing. Mississippi has high rates of preterm births ( < 37 weeks gestation: 13.3 per 100 births), low birth weights ( < 2,500 grams: 11.5 per 100 births), very low birth weights ( < 1,500 grams: 2.1 per 100 births), and infant mortality (death in first year: 8.9 per 1,000 live births). Breastfeeding has been shown to improve outcomes for preterm and low/very low birth weight babies. Demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors associated with poor birth outcomes also serve as barriers for women attempting to breastfeed. This pilot study collected primary data through community interviews, focus groups, and a study with NICU patients. Mothers were tracked by community health workers, social workers, and lactation specialists supervised under an IBLC through weekly check-ins and home visits. This panel will highlight insights gained by the study.