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Review
. 2010 Apr;202(4):335-43.
doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.10.864. Epub 2010 Jan 12.

Racial/ethnic disparities in obstetric outcomes and care: prevalence and determinants

Allison S Bryant  1 , Ayaba Worjoloh, Aaron B Caughey, A Eugene Washington
Affiliations
Review

Racial/ethnic disparities in obstetric outcomes and care: prevalence and determinants

Allison S Bryant et al. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2010 Apr.

Abstract

Wide disparities in obstetric outcomes exist between women of different race/ethnicities. The prevalence of preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, fetal demise, maternal mortality, and inadequate receipt of prenatal care all vary by maternal race/ethnicity. These disparities have their roots in maternal health behaviors, genetics, the physical and social environments, and access to and quality of health care. Elimination of the health inequities because of sociocultural differences or access to or quality of health care will require a multidisciplinary approach. We aim to describe these obstetric disparities, with an eye toward potential etiologies, thereby improving our ability to target appropriate solutions.

Keywords: disparities; maternal mortality; obstetrical care; preterm birth; race/ethnicity.

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References

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