Fact Check: United States have highest maternal death rate among High HDI rated countries

Fact Check: "United States has highest maternal death rate among High HDI rated countries"

What We Know

The claim that the United States has the highest maternal death rate among high Human Development Index (HDI) rated countries is supported by multiple sources. According to a report by the Harvard Gazette, the U.S. has consistently maintained the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income nations, with rates continuing to rise in recent years. The Commonwealth Fund also confirms that the U.S. maternal mortality rate significantly exceeds that of other high-income countries, despite a slight decline following the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2023, the maternal mortality rate in the U.S. was reported at 22.3 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is notably higher than the rates in other high HDI countries. The World Population Review estimates the U.S. rate to be around 23.8, placing it fourth globally, primarily due to healthcare inequities. Reports indicate that the maternal mortality rate for Black women in the U.S. is particularly alarming, at 49.5 deaths per 100,000 live births, which is the highest among any demographic group in the country (Commonwealth Fund).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim is robust, with multiple reputable sources corroborating the assertion that the U.S. has the highest maternal mortality rate among high HDI countries. The Health E-Stats report indicates a decrease in the maternal mortality rate to 18.6 in 2023, but this figure still places the U.S. at the top compared to other high-income nations.

The Global, Regional, and National Trends in Maternal Mortality study provides a comprehensive analysis of maternal mortality ratios across 37 high-income countries, revealing that while many countries have seen declines in maternal mortality, the U.S. has not experienced similar improvements. The U.S. News article further emphasizes that the U.S. rate of 22.3 per 100,000 live births is more than 50% higher than that of the next closest country, reinforcing the claim's validity.

The sources used are credible, including peer-reviewed studies and reports from reputable health organizations. However, it is essential to note that the maternal mortality rate can be influenced by various factors, including healthcare access, socioeconomic disparities, and systemic racism, particularly affecting marginalized groups within the U.S. (Commonwealth Fund).

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that the United States has the highest maternal death rate among high HDI rated countries is substantiated by multiple credible sources. The U.S. consistently reports higher maternal mortality rates than its peers, with significant disparities affecting specific demographic groups, particularly Black women. The evidence indicates that systemic issues within the healthcare system contribute to this ongoing crisis.

Sources

1. Health E-Stats, February 2025, Maternal Mortality Rates in ...
2. Global, Regional, and National Trends in Maternal ...
3. U.S. pregnancy-related deaths continuing to rise — Harvard ...
4. U.S. Maternal Mortality Crisis Comparison
5. Maternal Mortality Rate by Country 2025
6. Exhibits Insights into the U.S. Maternal Mortality Crisis: An ...
7. Specific country data - Human Development Reports
8. Maternal Mortality: How the U.S. Compares to Other Rich ...