US Infant Mortality Rate Reaches Record Low in 2025
Preliminary data released by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that the infant mortality rate in the United States reached a record low in 2025.
According to the data, there were fewer than 5.4 infant deaths per 1,000 live births during the year, marking an improvement compared with recent years. Health experts say the decline represents a positive trend in infant health outcomes.
The overall number of infant deaths also decreased in 2025. Preliminary estimates indicate that approximately 19,350 infants died before reaching their first birthday, down from more than 20,000 in each of the previous two years.
Infant mortality is a key public health indicator that measures the number of babies who die before their first birthday per 1,000 live births. Experts use the rate to monitor healthcare outcomes and track long-term trends in maternal and child health.
Medical professionals have welcomed the latest figures, noting that continued improvements in prenatal care, newborn healthcare, and public health initiatives may contribute to better outcomes for infants and families.
While the United States has recorded progress, health experts say efforts to further improve maternal and infant healthcare remain important for sustaining positive trends in the years ahead.
