When a baby is born, so is a parent: Understanding the effects of preterm birth on Black parents through the lens of the NIMHD framework

Background

The rate of preterm birth (PTB) is high in the United States and Black infants remain disproportionately affected, with the disparity between Black and White infant deaths greater today than it was under antebellum slavery.

Purpose

The National Institute on Minority Health and Disparities Research Framework reflects a unique set of determinants relevant to the understanding and promotion of minority health.

Methods

We have applied this framework to better understand the effects of PTB on Black parents and the distribution of the social determinants of health, including structural determinants and root causes of inequities.

Discussion

This adaptation shows the intersection in maternal and infant health that shapes individuals’ experiences, drives disparities and impacts perinatal outcomes in critical periods over the lifecourse.

Conclusion

In our efforts to achieve health equity, it is imperative that we study the underlying mechanisms and recognize that policies, institutional structures, and social factors are drivers of racism.