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3mo ago

Abortion Bans Linked to Increased Births and Infant Mortality in Vulnerable Populations

New studies reveal a 6% rise in infant deaths and higher birth rates in states with abortion bans, disproportionately affecting marginalized groups.

Abortion rights activists hold signs as they gather at the U.S. Supreme Court to mark the second anniversary of the Court overturning Roe v. Wade, in Washington, U.S., June 24, 2024. , U.S., June 24, 2024. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
A recovery room sits empty at a closed abortion clinic in San Antonio, Texas, August 16, 2022. REUTERS/Callaghan O'Hare/FILE PHOTO
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Overview

  • Research published in JAMA indicates that 14 states with abortion bans saw a 1.7% increase in fertility rates and a 5.6% rise in infant mortality between 2012 and 2023.
  • Black infants experienced an 11% higher mortality rate in these states, with nonwhite and low-income populations seeing the greatest impacts.
  • Deaths from congenital anomalies rose by nearly 11%, highlighting the increased number of pregnancies carried to term despite severe fetal conditions.
  • Texas accounted for the majority of additional births and infant deaths, influenced by early abortion restrictions and limited access to out-of-state care.
  • Experts emphasize that abortion bans exacerbate existing health disparities and call for stronger support systems for children and families.