TDNet Discover

Background: Maternal mortality in the United States is a growing public health crisis, particularly among racial and ethnic minorities. Black women are more than 3 times as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women. Social determinants of health—including race, education, and income—are major contributors to this disparity, yet these factors remain insufficiently examined in many public health interventions and research studies. Purpose: This research sought to identify and analyze the determinants of health that have the strongest influence on maternal mortality rates among minority populations in the United States, to inform strategies that improve maternal outcomes and advance health equity. Methods: A systematic review was conducted using 3 databases—PubMed, Google Scholar, and JSTOR—focusing on peer-reviewed studies published in the last 10 years. Inclusion criteria targeted studies involving adult pregnant women in the United States. After independent screening and quality assessment using NIH tools, 4 studies were selected for qualitative synthesis: 3 systematic reviews and 1 retrospective cohort study. Data was then extracted and analyzed. Results: The results revealed that race and ethnicity were the most prominent predictors of maternal mortality and morbidity. Black and other minority women experienced significantly higher rates of adverse outcomes, even when adjusting for clinical and socioeconomic factors. Lower iii maternal education was associated with higher maternal risk, though racial disparities persisted across all education levels. Low income and lack of insurance were also linked to increased risk of severe maternal morbidity, hospital readmissions, and limited access to quality care. Conclusion: The findings emphasize the impact of race, education, and income on maternal health disparities. Addressing these determinants requires systemic reforms that improve access, continuity of care, and culturally competent services for minority women. Further research is needed to evaluate interventions that target these social determinants at the fundamental level.