Perinatal Periods of Risk Project (PPOR)

“My symptoms weren’t taken seriously.”

“I was stressed trying to find mental health support.”

“I felt I had no choice but to travel for better services during my pregnancy.”

These are just some of the responses of Black moms in Chester County who were asked to recall their pregnancy and delivery experiences during a focus group held by the PPOR team at MCHC.

The U.S. has the highest infant mortality rate of any high-income country, with 5.4 deaths per 1,000 births. Broken down by race, Black infants are more likely to die before their first birthday than any other race. Research points to inequities in social and economic factors and systemic racism and discrimination as the main cause of this disparity. As this persists, more and more communities are being called to put equity at the forefront and improve their health and social safety net systems.

What is PPOR?

PPOR is an analytical framework for studying fetal and infant mortality in a specific community. It focuses on a community’s racial disparities in fetal and infant mortality rates. PPOR helps communities identify and prevent risk factors during the greatest periods of risk.

PPOR was started by the World Health Organiztion in 2004 and has since been modified by CityMatCH, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Health Resources and Services Administration, March of Dimes, and other health departments across the country. Now, MCHC brings the PPOR Project to Chester County.

Project Phase 1: Determine the period of greatest risk in Chester County based on vital records.

Project Phase 2: Identify the factors that contribute to deaths in that period. Bring together a collaborative group of stakeholders across sectors.

Project Phase 3: Develop an action plan based on the findings and priorities discussed with the collaborative group. Carry out the action plan.

PPOR is a collaborative effort! We welcome professionals and lived experience experts in all sectors to join in supporting Black women and families across the Chester County region. Contact us to get involved.