A shocking revelation has emerged from a recent NHS study, highlighting a deeply concerning disparity in neonatal care. Babies born to black mothers face an 81% higher risk of death during their time in neonatal units compared to babies born to white mothers. This alarming statistic is just the tip of the iceberg, as the study also uncovers a stark contrast in mortality rates for babies from deprived areas.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Liverpool, analyzed data from over 700,000 babies admitted to NHS neonatal units in England and Wales between 2012 and 2022. The results paint a grim picture, with black babies consistently experiencing the highest mortality rates throughout the study period.
But here's where it gets controversial: the study suggests that socioeconomic and ethnic factors independently influence survival rates in neonatal units. Samira Saberian, the lead author and a PhD student at the University of Liverpool, explains, "Maternal and birth factors explain only over half of the socioeconomic and ethnic inequalities." In simpler terms, it's not just about the medical care received during birth; it's about the broader social and economic conditions that impact families.
For babies born to mothers from the most deprived areas, the elevated risk of death is a staggering 63% compared to the least deprived. In 2022, the mortality rate for these babies reached 25.9 deaths per 1,000, while their least deprived counterparts had a rate of 12.8 deaths per 1,000.
And this is the part most people miss: the study is the first of its kind to examine both socio-economic and ethnic inequalities in neonatal units. It reveals a disturbing trend where babies from ethnic minority groups living in more deprived areas face a greater risk of dying.
Previous reports have already shown that black babies are almost twice as likely to be stillborn compared to white babies. A national investigation into NHS maternity services, set to conclude this year, will delve into racial disparities within maternity care.
The study also found that Asian babies had a 36% higher risk of death than their white counterparts, even after accounting for other contributing factors.
Rachel Drain, the quality and standards adviser at the Royal College of Midwives, described the findings as "deeply concerning." She emphasized the need for "urgent, coordinated action" to address the root causes of these disparities.
"Every baby deserves the same chance of survival, regardless of their ethnicity, background, or circumstances," Drain stated.
David Taylor-Robinson, professor of public health and policy at the University of Liverpool, added, "Our findings reveal that even in 2025, too many children face significant challenges from birth, and for some, even before they are born."
He continued, "I hope this evidence drives real action to address the wider factors that shape health outcomes. These are inequalities we cannot afford to ignore."
The study's conclusions are a stark reminder of the systemic issues within our healthcare system and society at large. It's time to take action and ensure that every baby, regardless of their background, has an equal chance at life.
