Public Policy and Government Affairs at March of Dimes" Stacey Y. Brayboy Photo credit Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler, Stacey Y. Brayboy
Recently on the "Wake Up With Dee Morning Show" Host Dr. Dee Dawkins Haigler spoke with Senior Vice President for Public Policy and Government Affairs at the March of Dimes Stacey Brayboy about the urgent need for improved maternal and infant health and the critical disparities affecting mothers and babies in the United States.
Ms. Brayboy discussed the March of Dimes’ latest report card on maternal and infant health, revealing that the U.S. continues to struggle with high rates of preterm birth. “This is the fourth consecutive year in the United States of America that our country has earned a D-plus grade when it comes to premature birth,” she said, pointing to the nation’s ongoing maternal and infant health crisis. She noted that nearly 380,000 babies were born prematurely in 2024, with African-American mothers disproportionately affected.
The report also highlights state-level differences, with Georgia receiving an F for its preterm birth rate of 11.8%, ranking 45th in the nation. Ms. Brayboy stressed that addressing these disparities requires both community engagement and federal action.
March of Dimes supports families through initiatives such as NICU education programs, prematurity research centers, and mobile health units to reach maternity care deserts. Ms. Brayboy explained, “We want you to stay healthy. We want you to eat the healthy foods. We want to have more fruits and vegetables, more whole grains.” She emphasized the importance of prenatal care, advocating for preconception checkups, vaccinations, and spacing pregnancies at least 18 months apart to reduce risk.
Ms. Brayboy also highlighted key legislation aimed at improving maternal health, including the Preventing Maternal Deaths Act (PMDA) and the Preemie Reauthorization Act.
To listen to the full interview, click the link above.