Turning Research into Practice:
Community-Based Interventions to Reduce Disparities in Preterm Delivery and Infant Mortality

Tonji Durant, Ph.D.
Preterm Delivery Group
Division of Reproductive Health
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Co-authors who will be available for questions during the broadcast include:
Vijaya Hogan, Dr.P.H.
Cynthia Ferre', MA
Jessie Richardson, MPH
Martha Boisseau, MPH
Lucy England, MD, MSPH

June 7, 2001

Background: Each year approximately 28,000 United States infants die within the first year of life. In 1994, the US's infant mortality rate ranked a less than desirable 25th among industrialized nations. The rate of decline in the US's infant mortality rate has been slower than expected. The race difference in the infant mortality rate has helped to maintain the higher infant mortality rate and it is believed that if the race gap is reduced, then the overall infant mortality rate will be reduced as well.

Presentation: This is the second of a two-part presentation In part one (May 3, 2000), Dr. Durant discussed the qualitative research findings of CDC supported studies and their implications for epidemiologic research and practice. The purpose of these studies was to better understand the social context of reproductive health. In part two (June 7, 2000), state and community intervention activities based on qualitative data will be highlighted. Other presenters with community, state health department and academic perspectives will join Dr. Durant to discuss the integration of research findings into state and local interventions. In addition, barriers to addressing the racial and ethnic disparities of birth outcomes and potential collaborations will be explored.