Washington D.C., Feb. 08, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is proud to endorse the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021. It is a legislative package introduced today by Representatives Lauren Underwood (IL-14) and Alma Adams (NC-12), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and members of the Black Maternal Health Caucus. Maternal mortality rates in America are the worst among the most developed nations. Defined as a public health crisis, Black moms are dying at higher rates than any other group.  

The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act of 2021 will build on existing maternal health legislation. It includes policies to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage. It also includes support for moms and babies exposed to increased risks due to climate change. AAFA highlights research which shows a link between in utero exposure to air pollution and the development of asthma in children. According to AAFA’s Asthma Disparities in America report, moms of color living in urban areas are often at greatest risk from environmental pollutants. Black women are also more likely to die from asthma than any other group.

“The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is proud to support the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act. Asthma disproportionately impacts Black, Hispanic, and Indigenous Americans. It is one of the most common chronic conditions that can complicate pregnancy. Social determinants and structural racism drive persistent health disparities, especially for Black mothers,” Kenneth Mendez, CEO and president of AAFA shared in support of the legislation. “We are encouraged to see meaningful legislation aimed at addressing the maternal health crisis in the U.S. which is disproportionately impacting Black women and their families. We thank Representative Underwood, Representative Adams, and Senator Booker for their leadership and look forward to working in partnership with the many supporting organizations of the Momnibus Act.”

In all, the Momnibus Act combines 12 bills to address America’s maternal health crisis. Additional legislative highlights include:

Not only does the U.S. have the highest pregnancy-related death rate in the developed world, it is also the only rate that continues to go up. Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications compared to white women. The legislation also seeks to provide more support for moms in the workforce around the time of giving birth. It also focuses on high-risk populations including pregnant veterans, incarcerated moms, Hispanic, Indigenous, and Asian American or Pacific Islander (AAPI) Americans. These groups also experience higher rates of poor maternal health outcomes.

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About AAFA

Founded in 1953, AAFA is the oldest and largest non-profit patient organization dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease for people with asthma, allergies and related conditions through research, education, advocacy and support. AAFA offers extensive support for individuals and families affected by asthma and allergic diseases, such as food allergies and atopic dermatitis (eczema). Through its online patient support communities, network of local chapters and affiliated support groups, AAFA empowers patients and their families by providing practical, evidence-based information and community programs and services. AAFA is the only asthma and allergy patient advocacy group that is certified to meet the standards of excellence set by the National Health Council. For more information, visit www.aafa.org.

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Kafi Brown, Public Relations Director
Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
2029741223
kbrown@aafa.org