Socioeconomic Influences on Maternal and Child Health in New Jersey

This project evaluates the socioeconomic determinants of maternal and birth outcome disparities in New Jersey by integrating the Birth Data from the NJ iPHD system and socioeconomic data from Rutgers Policy Map. Although New Jersey performs better than the national average on several maternal and child health indicators, significant disparities persist across racial, ethnic, and geographic areas.  

This study has three primary aims: (1) document temporal trends and demographic disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes, including mortality, preterm birth, and low birthweight; (2) quantify the impact of socioeconomic factors, such as income, healthcare access, food insecurity, and environmental exposures, on these outcomes; and (3) develop data-driven, equity-focused policy recommendations to improve maternal and child health statewide. 

Our approach combines descriptive statistics, machine learning (e.g., LASSO, random forests), and dynamic panel data models. By integrating health and socioeconomic data, this project will uncover high-risk populations and regions and identify structural drivers of poor maternal and birth outcomes.  

This research supports iPHD priorities to improve maternal and infant health and address social determinants of health. Findings from this research will be disseminated through multiple channels to maximize policy relevance and scholarly impact. Expected deliverables include a) policy briefs and targeted presentations to engage New Jersey stakeholders; b) scholarly dissemination through presentations at major national conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals, and c) future funding opportunities building on this research.