Maine's 1996 rate was the best in the nation. A national comparison of 1997 data among states is not yet available and the 1997 Maine figure is preliminary. Infant mortality is a good indicator of social conditions such as poverty and an unhealthy environment. The rate taken for the state as a whole is a reflection of the extent to which pregnant women and babies under a year old are subjected to negative conditions, as these are two of our most vulnerable populations. The social conditions impacting a human at this early stage of life are good indicators of expected social conditions throughout the individual's life.
Infant mortality is most meaningful when looked at over decades.
Because the previous benchmark has been achieved, a new benchmark has been established calling for continuous improvement. For related data, visit our links page. We have moved toward the benchmark. We have moved away from the benchmark. No significant movement either way.