Introduction: Previous research considers migration to be a highly selective process. Yet, migration status of U.S.-born women is seldom considered in studies related to birth outcomes. Aim: The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in live births to U.S.-born African American and white women, assigned to one of three migration status groups: (1) Non Migrants--southern born women that reside in their state of birth; (2) Inter Region Migrants---southern-born women that reside in a southern state other than their state of birth; and (3) Southern Region Migrants--non southern born women that reside in a southern state. Methods: In this study, the National Center for Health Statistics linked birth/infant death, birth cohort files for 1995-1997 are examined. The analysis is restricted to single-live births to non-Hispanic African American or white women (excluding foreign-born women) that reside and deliver in the U.S. southern region. Results: Compared to non migrants, southern region migrants are more likely to be more than 18 years of age, married, highly educated, and receive adequate prenatal care. The risk of low birthweight, very low birthweight, preterm delivery, and infants small for gestational age is greater for non migrant women, after controlling for maternal sociodemographic, behavioral, and medical risk factors, using logistic regression analysis. Conclusion: These results suggest that migration is a selective process for U.S. born women that migrate to and within the U.S. southern region. Further research is needed to explain differences in birth outcomes for U.S.-born migrant and non migrant women.
Learning Objectives: At the close of the presentation, the participant will be able to: (1) describe the maternal characteristics of US-born African American and white migrants and non migrants; (2) discuss the differences in birth outcomes of US-born African American and white migrants and non migrants that deliver in the U.S. southern region.
Keywords: Maternal Health, Birth Outcomes
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: CDC National Center for Health Statistics
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employee of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention