Home / Health / Rugby Infant Mortality Rate Alarms Health Officials
Rugby Infant Mortality Rate Alarms Health Officials
22 Sep
Summary
- Rugby's infant mortality rate in 2024 was 9.3 per 1,000 live births.
- This rate is significantly higher than the national average of 3.9.
- Rugby's figures represent half of all infant deaths in Warwickshire last year.
An official investigation is currently underway to understand why Rugby has recorded a significantly elevated infant mortality rate compared to national figures. In 2024, the borough's rate was 9.3 deaths per 1,000 live births, starkly contrasting with the national average of 3.9.
Data from the Office for National Statistics revealed 11 infant deaths in Rugby out of 1,180 live births last year. This figure alone represents half of the total infant deaths recorded across Warwickshire's five districts, highlighting Rugby as a consistent outlier over the past five years.
Health officials acknowledge the complexity of the issue, suggesting a confluence of factors beyond maternity services. Efforts are being made to analyze the data more granularly and identify specific drivers. This includes collaborations with hospitals, smoking cessation programs, and enhanced midwifery support for at-risk families.
