Alabama
Infant deaths up across United States, Alabama above national average
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (WBRC) – For the first time in 20 years, more infants are dying in the United States.
A new report from the CDC shows infant mortality rates in the U.S. went up 3% in 2022.
“Infant mortality is a very good indicator of how we’re doing as a society with our healthcare, and so, the increase is always concerning whether that’s in Alabama or whether that’s nationwide,” said Dr. Wes Stubblefield with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH).
ADPH says the infant mortality in the state is above the national average.
The national infant mortality rate was 5.6 deaths per thousand live births in 2022. In Alabama, ADPH says it was 6.7 deaths per thousand.
Birth defects and sudden infant death syndrome are major factors.
Stubblefield says there are also disparities in Alabama. More Black infants are dying.
“There’s a lot of reasons that go into that, some of it has to do with healthcare access,” the doctor said.
Of the 14 states that enacted near-total abortion bans in 2022, like Alabama, all but two states had a higher-than-average infant mortality rate that same year.
However, Alabama is seeing some improvement.
ADPH says infant mortality was lower in 2022 than the previous year and says it continues to work with the Governor’s Office and the State Legislature to secure funding.
“Home visiting programs, promoting safe sleep awareness through education, using screening to ensure that mothers who are identified that have substance abuse disorders are referred for treatment,” Stubblefield said.
County-by-county infant mortality rates from ADPH can be viewed here.
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Alabama State Parks offer lots of opportunities for fun, adventure, and family escapes, especially in summer.
Monte Santo State Park
Madison County
The overlook at Monte Santo State Park is a perfect place for couples. (Alabama State Parks)
Known for its rich history and stunning landscapes, Monte Santo offers diverse outdoor activities and miles of scenic hiking and biking trails. It’s a perfect destination for nature lovers and families looking for a peaceful retreat.
Langan Park
Mobile
Langan Park in Mobile is the perfect place to take in the outdoors in Alabama’s Port City. (George Dodd / Getty Images)
An urban oasis featuring lakes, walking trails, and large green spaces, Langan Park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors enjoy amenities such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and the Mobile Museum of Art.
Blount Cultural Park
Montgomery
The Renaissance Bridge is a landmark at Blount Cultural Park in Montgomery. (Daniela Duncan / Getty Images)
A blend of art and nature, this park is home to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Blount Cultural Park is beautifully landscaped with gardens, ponds, and scenic walking trails for the perfect day for nature lovers or anyone looking for outdoor respite.
Black Creek Park
Fultondale
Waterways and rocks add to the natural beauty of Fultondale’s Black Creek Park. (Beth Bachelor / Getty Images)
A spot featuring scenic walking trails, lush greenery and a family-friendly atmosphere, Black Creek Park is a natural getaway. Enjoy outdoor movie night under the stars, adding a touch of cinematic magic to this beautiful park.
Oak Mountain State Park
Pelham
Peavine Falls is one of the most photogenic locations at Oak Mountain State Park in Pelham. (Serge Yatunin / Getty Images)
A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Oak Mountain State Park offers a range of activities from hiking and mountain biking to fishing and horseback riding. With beautiful lakes and scenic views, it’s the perfect destination for adventure and relaxation.
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Alabama airports are splitting $22 million in the latest round of federal grants to improve infrastructure like runways, lighting and taxiways.
Huntsville International Airport and Birmingham- Shuttlesworth International Airport are in line for the largest slices of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Grants, which are based both on passenger volume and capital improvement needs.
HSV will be getting $12.8 million to help shift a taxiway 200 feet and rehabilitate pavement and lighting on Runway 18/36, according to the FAA. In Birmingham, $6.9 million is earmarked for rehabilitation and construction of additional taxiways.
“The funding we’re announcing today will allow hundreds of airports to make critical improvements that will benefit passengers for years to come,” U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a news release announcing the grants.
The remaining funds are going to 10 other airports in the state, including:
- $667,080 to Weedon Field in Eufaula for taxiway construction
- $524,323 to Troy Municipal Airport for taxiway rehabilitation
- $332, 786 to MacCrenshaw Memorial in Greenville for apron rehabilitation
- $309,747 to Franklin Field in Union Springs for hangar construction
- $164,270 to Tuscaloosa National for lighting vault equipment reconstruction
- $46,674 to Gulf Shores International for temporary runway closure lighting
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