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Hyattsville, MD – A recent data brief released by the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) has revealed a significant increase in the rate of neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions in the United States between 2016 and 2023.
The study, utilizing data from the National Vital Statistics System, examined trends in NICU admissions across various demographic categories, including maternal age, race and Hispanic origin, gestational age, birth weight, and state of residence.
Key findings indicate that the overall percentage of infants admitted to a NICU rose from 8.7 percent in 2016 to 9.8 percent in 2023, representing a 13 percent increase. This rise was observed across all maternal age groups.
Furthermore, the data shows an increase in NICU rates for each racial and Hispanic origin group. Notably, the largest increases were recorded among infants born to American Indian and Alaska Native non-Hispanic, White non-Hispanic, and Black non-Hispanic mothers.
The study also found that NICU admission rates increased across all gestational age and birth weight categories. In terms of geographical distribution, most U.S. states experienced an increase in NICU rates during the study period.
“Nearly one in 10 infants (9.8 percent) was admitted to a NICU in 2023, an increase of 13 percent from 2016,” stated authors Joyce A. Martin, M.P.H., and Michelle J.K. Osterman of the NCHS. “Increases from 2016 to 2023 were seen for each maternal age, race and Hispanic-origin group, gestational age and birth-weight category, and among most U.S. states.”
The research, published in an NCHS Data Brief, highlights a concerning trend in neonatal health and warrants further investigation into the underlying causes of this increase.
Disclaimer: This news article is based on the provided information from the NCHS Data Brief. Interpretations and conclusions may be subject to further research and analysis. It is important to consult with healthcare professionals for accurate and personalized medical advice.
