Exploring the Cultural and Social Context of Black Infant Mortality

Abstract

This community-based participatory research study explores perceptions about infant mortality among Black women in Leon and Gadsden counties of North Florida. It emphasizes engagement and leadership for community organizers and health profession students and partnership building across disciplines. Three focus groups were conducted with Black women (N=20) ages 19 to 68. Participants responded to questions about infant mortality definitions, community impacts, sociocultural causes, prevention strategies, health care access, and racial dynamics. Content analysis with open coding was used to identify key themes. Findings suggest that infant mortality in local Black communities stems from interconnected individual, family, community, health system, and societal factors. These include discrimination, socioeconomic challenges, female burden, stress, cultural taboos, health care access, psychosocial support, educational opportunities, and intergenerational communication. Participants describe community outreach, education, and advocacy as ideal solutions.