Maternal Health and Nutrition: Combating Maternal Mortality Through Proper Nutrition

Maternal mortality is an increasing concern in the United States. According to the WHO, from 2018-2022 the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) was 23.3 deaths per every 100,000 live births. New Jersey's MMR exceeded this average at 26 per 100,000 during the same period, with 91% of cases deemed preventable. While medical care plays a crucial role, research shows that non-medical determinants such as food insecurity, lack of nutritional education, limited access to transportation, and systemic barriers to health care contribute significantly to maternal health outcomes. Among these factors, proper nutrition plays a critical role before and during pregnancy, particularly in low socioeconomic populations. Existing global efforts, such as the HEAR her campaign and the expansion of telemedicine, aim to address maternal mortality through professional support and improved communication. However, many individuals remain unaware of these resources or are unable to access them due to systemic and logistical barriers. At the local level, organizations like Nurture NJ, The Cooperative, and Baby’s Best Start strive to reach underserved populations and provide essential support. A group of students in The Health Careers Opportunity Ambassador Program (HCOP), federally funded to prepare disadvantaged students for serving vulnerable populations, has partnered with Baby's Best Start to enhance their curriculum with an emphasis on prenatal nutrition education as a strategy to combat maternal mortality.