LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Infant mortality in Indiana is at a record low, according to newly released data.
Provisional date from Indiana Department of Health Wednesday shows the 2025 infant mortality death rate is virtually unchanged from 2024, with 6.3 deaths per 1,000 live births — the lowest rate of infant deaths since record-keeping began in 1900.
Infant mortality is measured as deaths before a child's first birthday, per 1,000 births. As of April 2026, there have been 500 deaths, compared to 509 deaths in 2024.
"The loss of every baby is a tragedy," said State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver. "We always want to see that number go down, but we are encouraged to see Indiana has maintained its current historic low infant mortality rate and the lives of nine more babies were saved."
According to the IDOH, risked factors for infant deaths include delayed prenatal care, obesity, substance abuse, smoking during pregnancy and maternal stress.
The department credited early intervention efforts — reviewing hospital data, conducting comprehensive reviews of infant deaths and partnering with local organizations to increase awareness — as a large reason for the low rate.
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