The article, Trying to Explain a Drop in Infant Mortality by Erik Eckholm of the NY Times, explains the very interesting distribution of infant mortality rates with respect to maternal happiness as the baby is developing. Eckholm gives us the story of Ta-Shai Pendleton's two unfortunate infant deaths while living in a very poor region of Madison, Wisconsin. The story then develops as she moves to a better community in Madison and finally gives birth to a healthy baby girl. Her story heartwarming, but it is not uncommon, especially in the poorer black counties that have a higher infant mortality rate per thousand compared to the white community. Doctors are not entirely sure what effect that environment has on the developing fetus, but they do believe it is connected to the happiness and well-being of the mother. There are greater physical stresses that pregnant mothers have to deal with in the poorer counties. This in turn affects the developing baby. Members of the community, like visiting nurses and supportive church groups, that help pregnant mothers in tough situations may be increasing the babies survivability by aiding the mother.
The article as a whole was okay. I found the topic interesting, not very surprising , but interesting. I think that Eckholm did not report the story as firmly as he should. I'm not saying that he should completely proclaim that babies are dying because mothers are in stressful situations, but he should recognize that there is a connection and there are statistics and examples to support the argument. Of course there are exceptions, but they shouldn't overpower the overall story.
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