The Cincinnati Health Department has been awarded a $340,000 grant to address maternal and infant health in the Tri-State area. According to Epidemiologist Joseph White, there is a growing maternal and child health crisis across the United States, with Cincinnati experiencing higher-than-average infant mortality rates. Many babies in the region are born into challenging living situations, with a 2021 study at UC Health revealing that one in five families are food insecure.
Geneva Goode, the COO of the Cincinnati Health Department, emphasized the importance of proper nutrition for women during pregnancy. She explained that it can help prevent issues such as stress, depression, and hypertension. The funding will be used to expand services for expecting and new mothers, providing education during the prenatal period and support in the postpartum period. They also plan to encourage follow-up visits to ensure both mother and child’s well-being.
White noted that while preliminary data suggests that the infant mortality rates in Cincinnati may have improved in 2023 compared to previous years, they are still lagging behind the national rate. For more information on prenatal care and services provided by the Cincinnati Health Department, individuals can visit their website. If you come across any spelling or grammar errors in this story or have photos or videos of breaking news stories, please submit them with a brief description to your preferred news outlet.
In conclusion, addressing maternal and infant health is critical for improving overall health outcomes for families and communities across the United States. The Cincinnati Health Department’s grant will help improve access to essential services for pregnant women and newborns in need of support during these crucial periods of development.
