The recently released 2025 March of Dimes State Report Card makes one thing clear: Arkansas made historic progress this year, but our work to improve maternal and infant health is far from over. Based on the most recent data available, including 2024 birth outcomes, these findings underscore why our continued focus and commitment matter.

The data show that Arkansas' preterm birth rate remains stuck at 12.1 percent, earning a failing grade and dropping our national ranking from 46th to 47th. Our infant mortality rate also rose, increasing from 7.7 to 8.2 deaths per 1,000 live births, placing Arkansas second-worst in the country. Adequate prenatal care declined and low-risk cesarean births increased. These numbers reveal what Arkansas families already know: too many women still struggle to

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