Pregnancy-Related Behaviors Among Migrant Farm Workers—Four States, 1989-1993

Abstract

The U.S workforce includes an estimated 3-5 million migrant and seasonal farm workers; approximately 16% of migrant farm workers are women (R. Mines, U.S. Department of Labor, personal communication, 1997). Early enrollment in prenatal care and proper weight gain during pregnancy can reduce the risk for poor birth outcomes. To characterize pregnancy-related behaviors and outcomes among migrant farm workers, CDC analyzed daa for 1989-1993 on prenatal-care use, weight gain during pregnancy, and birth outcomes among migrant farm workers enrolled in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in four states participating in CDC's Pregnancy Nutrition Surveillance System (PNSS). This report presents the results of that analysis, which indicate that the goals of the national health objectives for the year 2000 for pregnant migrant women enrolled in WIC have not been met.