"Uncovering America's Birthweight Crisis"

The United States is facing a growing crisis of low birthweight babies, with more than 300,000 newborns affected, particularly in low-income communities with poor access to healthy foods and high-polluting environments. Factors such as inadequate nutrition, pollution, and poor healthcare contribute to this issue, disproportionately affecting Black families. The trend is worsening, with the preterm birth rate at its highest since 2014. Addressing this crisis requires promoting healthier habits through programs like WIC, reducing exposure to hazardous environments, and ensuring access to basic nutrition and clean air for expectant parents.