Infant mortality-the death of a child within the first year of life-is a critical indicator of population health. It reflects the well-being of mothers and families, as well as broader socioeconomic and environmental factors that influence health outcomes and access to care. Approximately two-thirds of infant deaths occur in the neonatal period (within one month), and one-third occur in the post-neonatal period (from one month to less than one year). Neonatal mortality is most frequently related to prematurity, congenital anomalies, and other perinatal conditions. Post-neonatal mortality is more commonly attributed to sudden unexpected infant death (SUID), congenital anomalies, infections, and injuries.

*2024 and 2025 data are considered preliminary and may change as more information becomes available.  

*Data analysis was prepared by Canton City Public Health, Cade Harmon, Epidemiologist, 234-458-5143. Data was obtained from the Data Ohio Portal Protected Datasets on 5/21/2025 with data from 5/21/2025. The Ohio Department of Health specifically disclaims responsibility for any analysis, interpretation, or conclusions. Birth data is typically preliminary for 2 years, and infant mortality data is typically preliminary for 4 years. The Department of Children and Youth has specified that race for birth and mortality data is derived from the mother's race alone.