Dear Friends,
The act of giving birth should not put a person’s life at risk, but every year, about 50,000 people across the U.S. experience severe complications during their pregnancy. In far too many cases, especially in Harris County, those complications are deadly. Black Maternal Health Week, which is observed every year from April 11 to 17, is an opportunity for us to bring attention to Black maternal health and the dangers faced by people of color during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum.
Here in Precinct One, those dangers—fueled by stark racial disparities in healthcare access and resources—persist. In fact, our communities experienced the highest maternal mortality rate in Harris County from 2016 to 2020. Of every 10,000 live births, 5.68 people died.
The vast majority of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, and that’s why Harris County is investing in initiatives that prioritize maternal and infant health. A recent report from Harris County Public Health shows increases in several pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sexually transmitted diseases. These conditions, which lead to complications in pregnancy, disproportionately affect people of color. Among the findings:
- The rate of sexually transmitted diseases in Harris County among pregnant women has increased between 2018 and 2021. Harris County had higher rates of women with syphilis infection during pregnancy compared to Texas and the United States, especially among Black, non-Hispanic mothers.
- Black, non-Hispanic women had the highest percentage of pre-pregnancy hypertension (2.6%) compared with all other racial and ethnic groups.
- The rate of Harris County women who had a previous preterm birth increased from 2016 through 2021. Black, non-Hispanic women had the highest percentage of having a previous preterm birth at 4.85%, followed by Hispanic women at 3.25%.
The urgency to address this is undeniable, and Harris County is already working to tackle the disparities that put vulnerable populations at risk when they have children. The Maternal & Child Health Program (MCHP), which provides personalized assistance, resources, and education to ensure positive health outcomes, exceeded its first-year goal by serving 176 participants. More than 200 home visits were conducted, and 156 clients were connected with prenatal and postpartum care, well-child visits, and first newborn care.
We must acknowledge, however, that no single initiative can erase deeply rooted disparities in health care access, education, and the basic needs that our families need to thrive. Programs like the MCHP are part of a holistic effort to address poverty, fight discrimination, and create environments that promote the health of all families in Precinct One.
By working together and supporting the efforts of Harris County Public Health, we can lay the groundwork for a future where no person loses their life while bringing one into this world.
Sincerely,
Rodney Ellis