07/08/2025
In Tippecanoe County, Indiana, the infant mortality rate is a concern, particularly among certain racial and ethnic groups. While overall rates have improved, Black infants experience significantly higher mortality rates compared to their White counterparts. The county also sees a high rate of Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID).
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Disparities:
Black infants in Tippecanoe County die at more than double the rate of White infants. This disparity has persisted for decades.
Fetal and Infant Mortality:
Over 50% of fetal and infant deaths in Tippecanoe County since 2020 have occurred within the Black, Biracial, or Hispanic populations, despite these groups making up less than 20% of the total county population.
SUID:
Tippecanoe County is tied as the sixth highest in Indiana for SUID, with an average of 14.3 deaths per 10,000 births.
Safe Sleep:
A significant portion of infant deaths in the county are related to unsafe sleeping positions, prompting educational efforts by the West Central Indiana Fetal and Infant Mortality Review team.
Community Efforts:
The Fetal and Infant Mortality Review team works to identify causes of infant deaths, develop prevention strategies, and conduct outreach in the community, including events like a community baby shower.
Statewide Improvement:
Indiana's overall infant mortality rate recently reached its lowest point since 1900, indicating positive trends, but disparities persist within the state.
FIMR Program:
The West Central Indiana Fetal and Infant Mortality Review (FIMR) Program is a multidisciplinary team that reviews stillbirths and infant deaths to identify gaps in services and develop prevention strategies.
