Hawai'i newborns do well in comparison
| • | Chart: Healthy babies indicators |
By Alice Keesing
Advertiser Health Writer
Hawai'i babies have a healthier start in life than many of their Mainland counterparts, according to a national report released yesterday.
The report, "The Right Start for America's Newborns by Child Trends and Kids Count," compares states and cities on the basis of healthy births over the last decade.
Hawai'i fared better than the national average on seven of the eight measures and was equal on one. It ranked among the top 10 states in three areas: low rates of repeat teen births, of low maternal education and for a low rate of smoking during pregnancy.
"I think we can feel very good about this report," said Marcia Hartsock, who heads up the University of Hawai'i's Center on the Family.
Hawai'i has done particularly well in prevention, Hartsock said. The statistic that 7.6 percent of Hawai'i's pregnant women smoke — which is the fourth lowest in the nation — demonstrates the emphasis on health in this state, she said.
Hartsock sees positive signs for the future in school health curriculum and the state's campaign encouraging people to start living healthy. However, she is concerned that the state may not be able to maintain its quality of health as the economy continues to struggle.
Hawai'i slipped slightly in three areas between 1990 and 1999: an increase in single mothers, a greater percentage of babies born prematurely and with low birthweights.
Researchers place a strong emphasis on a baby's start in life because it can indicate how the child will fare later. The latest research shows premature birth is related to developmental delays.
Low birthweight is connected to educational problems that last into adulthood. And the marital status, age and education of the mother also can translate into conditions that place children at risk of poor educational and other outcomes.
A link to the report can be found online.
Reach Alice Keesing at akeesing@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8014.
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