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Increase in Infant Mortality in France: Uncovering the Reasons

Examining increments in newborn deaths in France: Parliamentarians scrutinize a proposed bill on May 15th to pinpoint causes and propose solutions for this deterioration.

Examining proposed legislation on France's escalating infant mortality: On Thursday, May 15th, the...
Examining proposed legislation on France's escalating infant mortality: On Thursday, May 15th, the deputies delved into the causes of this concerning trend and sought solutions to curb it.

Increase in Infant Mortality in France: Uncovering the Reasons

Headline: The Alarming Rise in Infant Mortality in France: A Harrowing Reality for New Parents

Subheading: An In-depth Look at the Shocking Increase in Infant Deaths, Defying Trends in Wealthy Countries

France, the land of love and fashion, is currently grappling with a heartbreaking issue. A baby named Elle, barely a few days old, has already faced two life-saving surgeries due to a severe malformation. Yet, amidst France's state-of-the-art healthcare services, a grim statistic stands out - the infant mortality rate (New Window) is on the rise, with 4.1 deaths per every 1,000 births in 2021, compared to just 3.5 back in 2011. This unfortunate reality has led to almost 2,700 children dying before their first birthday and left countless families in mourning.

France's Falling Grades

Elle's parents keep a precious memento from her short life - a collection of photos capturing the memories of her 10 days on earth. Born prematurely at five and a half months of pregnancy, Elle's parents never anticipated the tragic turn of events. And they certainly didn't expect that by the time Elle entered the world, France would be struggling to keep pace with its European counterparts.

Stream the latest report in the video above

Digging Deep: Our Sources

INSEE Study April 2025 "One in 250 children dies before the age of one in France" (New Window)

As we delve deeper into the causes, it's crucial to consider various factors at play, including health system challenges, infectious diseases, and potential social issues that may be less evident. While the complete picture is not fully understood, it's clear that the upward trend in infant mortality rates in France contrasts with the steady decline seen in other wealthy countries and the EU.

For instance, the European Union's infant mortality rate was 3.11 per 1,000 live births in 2022[5]. In recent years, France's infant mortality rate had remained relatively stable, around 3.4 per 1,000 live births from 2021-2023[4]. However, the recent spike in infant deaths in 2024 raises concerns about this stability.

One specific health threat mentioned is the chikungunya virus, which claimed a baby's life on Réunion Island (a French overseas territory) in 2025[2]. In response, President Macron pledged to provide vaccines to combat chikungunya, highlighting how infectious diseases may be contributing factors in certain regions.

In summary, the rise in infant mortality in France since 2024 presents a troubling picture, going against the general trend seen in other wealthy countries. Although the ultimate causes remain unclear, a combination of factors, including health system challenges, emerging infectious diseases, and possibly additional social or medical factors yet to be identified, are likely contributors to this concerning trend. Efforts to understand and reverse this rising trend are now underway[3][2].

  1. The European Union's infant mortality rate, in 2022, was 3.11 per 1,000 live births, significantly lower than France's current rate.
  2. The rise in infant mortality in France since 2024 contrasts with the steady decline seen in other wealthy countries and the EU.
  3. Among the factors contributing to the upward trend in infant deaths in France are health system challenges and infectious diseases.
  4. Social issues, possibly less visible, may also play a role in the increase of infant mortality rates in France.
  5. The complete picture of the causes of the rise in infant mortality rates in France is not yet fully understood.
  6. It's clear, however, that the rise in infant mortality rates in France goes against the general trend seen in other wealthy countries and the EU.
  7. The recent spike in infant deaths in 2024 raises concerns about the stability of France's infant mortality rate.
  8. One specific health threat mentioned is the chikungunya virus, which claimed a baby's life on Réunion Island in 2025.
  9. In response to the spread of chikungunya, President Macron pledged to provide vaccines to combat the virus.
  10. Workplace wellness and fitness, including exercise and nutrition, are crucial parts of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, even for new parents.
  11. Mental health, a key aspect of overall health, must also be addressed to tackle the rising infant mortality rates.
  12. Pregnant women should take care of their health, considering factors like chronic diseases, digestive health, eye-health, hearing, and skin-conditions.
  13. The management of weight, cardiovascular health, and aging are vital components of prenatal and postnatal care.
  14. Furthermore, men's health, sexual health, and healthcare for specific medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders, cancer, respiratory conditions, and neurological disorders should be addressed.
  15. Lastly, the impact of therapies and treatments, including medicare and CBD, on infant health and wellness requires further research to fully understand their effects.

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