An investigation of factors associated with infant mortality in two midwest counties.

The retrospective research study was designed to investigate the relationship between infant mortality and the six variables of early prenatal care, immaturity, maternal age, Maternal education, and socioeconomic status in two midwestern counties. Data from birth and birth and death cohort records were analyzed. The Health Belief Model was used as the theoretical framework. Its constructs were explored for potential influence on infant mortality. A significant relationship existed between the six variables and infant mortality. Based on the results of this present study, the constructs of the Health Belief Model hold promise for the development of effective interventions to affect the behavior that will reduce infant mortality.