A new study from John Foy & Associates reveals that preterm birth rates in the Southern U.S. far exceed the national average, putting thousands of babies at risk for serious health complications and lifelong challenges. In 2023, 373,902 infants were born prematurely in the U.S., accounting for 10.4% of all births but in Southern states, the numbers are significantly higher, particularly among Black and Indigenous mothers. Key Findings: State-Specific Breakdown of Preterm Birth Risks: State Black Preterm Birth Rate American Indian Preterm Birth Rate Overall Risk Mississippi 18% 17% Highest in the U.S. Alabama 17% 14% Critical Risk South Carolina 16% 13% High Risk Georgia 15% 15% High Risk North Carolina 15% 12% High Risk Mississippi (18%…