U.S. Preterm Birth Rates Rise Significantly from 2014 to 2022

Recent CDC data reveals a 12% increase in preterm births, with early-term births also seeing a significant rise.

The rate of preterm births in the U.S. increased by 12% between 2014 and 2022, while early-term births rose by 20%.
Preterm and early-term births are linked to higher risks of morbidity and mortality compared to full-term births.
Racial and age disparities in preterm birth rates have become more pronounced, with Black and Hispanic communities most affected.
Factors contributing to the rise include health conditions, stress, and changes in prenatal care during the pandemic.
States with abortion bans have higher rates of preterm births, suggesting social and economic stressors may also play a role.