Missouri ranks 37th in preterm birth rate in 2025 report

Alison Patton

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Missouri ranks 37 out of 52, which includes the 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico, for preterm birth rate, according to the 2025 March of Dimes report.

Missouri had an 11% preterm rate in 2024, which is the same as in 2023.

St. Louis had the highest preterm birth rate at 12.8%, according to the report. The March of Dimes calls this an “F” rating, although St. Louis did improve from the previous year.

Jackson and St. Charles counties both worsened, standing at a “D” rating, according to the report. Jackson County was at 11.1% and St. Charles County was 10.9%.

Smoking, hypertension, unhealthy weight and diabetes in pregnancy can contribute to a preterm birth, according to the report.

The report also says paid family leave and mental health checks are crucial to improving maternal and infant health in Missouri; however, the report indicates that the state does not have these policies.

The report also cites Medicaid extension and expansion, doula care reimbursement and maternal mortality review as programs or policies in Missouri that are improving maternal and infant care.

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