We Must Protect The Only National Data On Preventable Maternal Deaths Cindy L. Herrick Rizwana Biviji Karen Tabb Dina February 23, 2026

https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/we-must-protect-only-national-data-preventable-maternal-deaths The United States has the highest maternal mortality rates (18.6 deaths per 100,000 live births) among high-income nations, a grim statistic that reflects a major public health crisis. Maternal mortality is recognized as a key indicator of public health, and each maternal death carries a profound societal and economic impact. Data from Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs), multidisciplinary groups that convene at the state or local level to comprehensively review deaths that occur during or within 1 year of the end of pregnancy, now provide the nation’s clearest understanding of pregnancy-related deaths, defined as deaths during pregnancy or within one year postpartum caused by pregnancy complications, pregnancy-initiated events, or the exacerbation of an existing condition by pregnancy. Most critically, MMRC data provide preventability factors, measures, and recommendations for change.