Health Department celebrates record low infant mortality rate in Indiana

The Indiana Department of Health (IDOH) is celebrating a historic milestone after provisional data revealed the state’s infant mortality rate (IMR) dropped to its lowest level in more than a century. According to the 2024 preliminary figures, Indiana recorded an IMR of 6.3 deaths per 1,000 live births—an improvement from 6.6 in 2023. If confirmed, this would mark the lowest rate of infant deaths in the state since at least 1900, surpassing the previous record of 6.5 in 2019.

“With Indiana’s infant mortality rate at its lowest in over a century, we see the real impact of everyone who is focused on protecting our most vulnerable Hoosiers,” said Governor Mike Braun. “We are committed to ensuring that even more babies have a healthy start and a strong future.”

Infant mortality refers to the death of a child before their first birthday and is a key measure of a state’s overall health. Multiple factors influence infant mortality, many of which are tied to maternal health. Risk factors include maternal stress, obesity, smoking during pregnancy, and limited or delayed prenatal care.

The IDOH released the 2024 data provisionally to increase transparency and to support data-driven decisions among community organizations and healthcare providers. Officials hope the information can help direct resources and improve maternal and infant health outcomes across Indiana.

“We are ecstatic that more Hoosier babies are celebrating their first birthdays,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Lindsay Weaver. “Seeing these efforts pay off is something to celebrate, and we are grateful to clinicians, healthcare centers, local health departments, and all our partners for their tireless work.”

While the national goal set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is to reduce the U.S. infant mortality rate to 5.0 deaths per 1,000 births by 2030, Indiana is steadily making progress. The current U.S. average, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, was 5.6 in 2023.

“The critical work to further reduce infant mortality continues,” Dr. Weaver said. “The Indiana Department of Health is committed to our role to decrease the number of infant deaths in Indiana and give the next generation of Hoosiers the best possible start.”

A full analysis of the 2024 data is expected in the coming months as figures are finalized. In the meantime, IDOH continues to lead multiple efforts aimed at improving outcomes for mothers and babies, including: Analyzing hospital discharge data to enhance maternal and neonatal care practices; Collaborating with birthing facilities to address potential complications through the Levels of Care program; Supporting community-based services like home visiting, breastfeeding education, and safe sleep training; Reviewing fetal and infant death cases to identify trends and prevention opportunities; Ensuring patients are referred to the appropriate level of care before delivery based on their risk factors.

For more information about maternal and child health programs and services, visit the IDOH Division of Maternal and Child Health website.