Alarming Spike in U.S. Stillbirths: Study Reveals Hidden Crisis and Disparities
WASHINGTON D.C. – November 22, 2025 – A groundbreaking new study is sending shockwaves through the medical community, revealing that stillbirths in the United States are significantly more common than previously understood, and the tragedy is hitting certain communities with devastating force. The research, published today, underscores an urgent need for improved screening, surveillance, and a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to these heartbreaking losses. This is a breaking news story with significant implications for Google News indexing and SEO visibility.
Nearly 1 in 147 Births End in Stillbirth – A Rate Higher Than Official Figures
Analyzing nearly 2.8 million pregnancies between 2016 and 2022, researchers from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Mass General Brigham discovered a stillbirth rate of 1 in 147 births. This is considerably higher than the 1 in 175 rate reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The discrepancy, experts say, likely stems from inconsistencies in how stillbirths are recorded across different states.
The Silent Tragedy: 30% of Stillbirths Occur With No Known Risk Factors
Perhaps the most unsettling finding is that almost 30% of stillbirths occur in pregnancies that appeared to have no identifiable risk factors. While over 70% of stillbirths are linked to conditions like obesity, drug use, or diabetes, a substantial number happen without warning. This highlights a critical gap in our ability to predict and prevent these losses. “It’s amazing that there are so many stillbirths today with no apparent risk factors,” says study co-author Jessica Cohen, a professor of health economics at Harvard. “We have clocks that measure our sleep and stress, but we can’t always tell when a pregnancy is at risk.”
Disparities Deepen: Black Families and Low-Income Communities Disproportionately Affected
The study paints a stark picture of health inequities. Stillbirth rates are alarmingly higher in specific populations: 1 in 112 births for low-income families and a staggering 1 in 95 births in areas with a higher proportion of Black families compared to white families. Black mothers experience stillbirth at nearly three times the rate of white mothers – a disparity that experts like Yale University’s Harvey Kliman attribute to systemic racism and its impact on access to quality care and even a woman’s ability to advocate for herself within the healthcare system. “There is no biological reason why the stillbirth rate for Black Americans is nearly three times higher than for whites,” Kliman emphasizes.
Beyond Medical Care: The Role of Social Determinants of Health
Researchers believe that social disadvantage plays a significant role, extending beyond simple access to medical care. Even with private health insurance, women in under-resourced communities face barriers that contribute to increased risk. These can include limited access to nutritious food, safe housing, and transportation, as well as the stress of living in environments with chronic adversity.
A Mother’s Story: The Pain of Unexplained Loss and the Fight for Change
Jaye Wilson, a 41-year-old nurse from Maryland, shared her heartbreaking experience of losing her daughter Nyiiema Renay at 22 weeks due to placental abruption. Wilson’s story underscores the importance of addressing bias in healthcare and empowering Black women to advocate for their needs. Following her loss, she founded Melinated Moms, an organization dedicated to providing resources and support to mothers of color.
Global Perspective: U.S. Stillbirth Rates Remain High
While stillbirth rates have declined globally over the past 30 years, the United States continues to lag behind many other developed nations. In 2023, nearly 2 million stillbirths occurred worldwide, representing about 1 in every 70 births, according to UNICEF. The U.S. remains among the countries with the highest rates, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions.
What Can Be Done?
Dr. Mark Clapp, an obstetrician and maternal-child medicine specialist at Massachusetts General Hospital, stresses the need for better screening and surveillance measures. While identifying risk factors is crucial, he acknowledges that prevention options remain limited. Ongoing research is vital to understand the underlying causes of stillbirths, particularly those that occur without apparent risk factors. Furthermore, addressing systemic inequities and ensuring equitable access to high-quality maternal care are paramount.
The findings of this study serve as a powerful reminder that every pregnancy is precious, and every stillbirth represents an unimaginable loss. Archyde.com remains committed to bringing you the latest developments in health and wellness, and to amplifying the voices of those affected by these critical issues. Stay informed and join the conversation – your awareness can help drive change.
Author: Sabrina Malhi, National Health Reporter
