Date of Conferral

9-1-2025

Degree

Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)

School

Public Health

Advisor

Patrick Tschida

Abstract

The rate of infant mortality is a pressing health issue in the United States, as ethnic minorities are disproportionately affected. This study addressed how race controls the predictive power of demographic, socioeconomic, and geographic factors on infant mortality. Using a quantitative correlational design, secondary data from 181 individuals listed in the CDC-National Vital Statistics System database were used, which contains nationally aggregated data related to infant mortality rates. Bronfenbrenner’s social ecological model guided the study, and multiple regression and moderation models were used to examine socioeconomic status and access to healthcare on infant mortality outcomes. Results indicated that race significantly moderated the effects of maternal prepregnancy, BMI, and state residency (R2 = .908, F (4, 35) = 20.234, p < .001), and BMI had a more substantial impact on infant mortality for African American mothers (B = 4.130, p < .001). Race and ethnicity also significantly moderated the effects of WIC participation on infant mortality (R2 = .603, F (4, 172) = 32.705, p < .001); however, race and ethnicity did not significantly moderate the impact of geographic factors such as state or urban/rural status on infant mortality, except for within the State of Florida (B = 2.298, p = .021). Results from this study can help guide public health professionals and relevant stakeholders on how to understand the underlying factors affecting infant mortality. Results emphasize the need for targeted interventions, including integration of culturally competent quality healthcare for underserved populations, expansion of community-based prenatal education programs, and addressing geographic and socioeconomic barriers.

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