LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — A newly released 2025 report card from March of Dimes highlights "both serious concerns and important opportunities for continued progress in maternal and infant health in Arkansas."

According to the report card, several key indicators for maternal and infant health in Arkansas worsened throughout 2024.

The report showed that the state's preterm birth rate remained at 12.1% and earned an "F" on the report card. As a result, Arkansas fell from 46th to 47th nationally in regards to preterm birth rate.

In addition to the "F" in preterm birth rate, infant mortality in the state has increased from 7.7 to 8.2. deaths per 1,000 live births. This number places Arkansas second to last among other states.

Lastly, the report card highlights that there have been lingering gaps

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