Bronx Claims Highest Percentage of Asthma, Diabetes & Infant Mortality In New York
The Bronx continues to hold the dubious distinction of being among the sickest of the boroughs.
It has high percentages of asthma and diabetes, as well as the highest number of teen births and the highest infant mortality rate, according to the city Department of Health’s 2006 Vital Statistics Summary.
In the past decade the city’s infant mortality rate has been in steady decline, down to an all-time low of 5.9 per 1,000 live births in 2006.
But the Bronx rate remains the highest among the five boroughs, increasing from 6.2 deaths per 1,000 live births in 2005 to 7.1 in 2006, with Mott Haven, Williamsbridge and Morrisania having the borough’s highest infant mortality rates.
“This is a strong indicator of the social welfare and health of the mother,” said Dr. Lorna Thorpe, city Health Department deputy director. “Women who plan their births, have appropriate prenatal care, low rates of obesity and diabetes make healthier moms.”
Thorpe also sees a correlation with teen birth rates.
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