In South Carolina, maternal and child health (MCH) faces significant challenges that require urgent attention and intervention. Severe maternal morbidity (SMM), which includes life-threatening conditions such as heart failure, kidney failure, sepsis, shock, embolism, excessive bleeding, stroke and chronic lifelong diseases, poses a serious risk to pregnant women. These conditions can lead to lifelong complications, including blindness, amputations, mental health issues and, in some cases, death.
Recent research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has shown that chronic conditions are the most significant contributors to rising maternal mortality and morbidity in the U.S. In South Carolina, an estimated 1 in every 10 perinatal patients is diagnosed with diabetes, increasing their likelihood of experiencing SMM, ICU admissions, avoidable cesarean sections and having children suffering from birth defects.
The health of infants is equally concerning. Prematurity and low birthweight are leading causes of infant mortality in South Carolina. Over 12 percent of infants born in the state are premature, ranking South Carolina fifth in the country. Additionally, South Carolina exhibits some of the highest rates of low birthweight in the nation, with 1 in 10 babies at high risk for immediate health problems and greater risks for developmental delays and chronic diseases later in life.
Managing Maternal Diabetes for Healthier Pregnancies
Diabetes Free SC (DFSC) is committed to tackling these statistics by empowering women through the SC MOMs program, a management of maternal diabetes initiative offered through participating maternal care centers in South Carolina.
SC MOMs helps pregnant women with diabetes manage their condition through coordinated care from specialists. In-person care and telemedicine provide close monitoring for these women during and after pregnancy. Since its launch in 2020, the program has served over 3,000 patients. Women in the program and their newborns have fewer health risks compared to those not in the program. This initiative has reduced the risk of birth defects, stillbirth and preterm birth, ensuring healthier pregnancies and better outcomes for newborns.
The South Carolina Institute of Medicine and Public Health featured the initiative in the April 2025 Maternal and Infant Health Report as a path to positive change.
Collective Impact on Maternal Child Health
SC MOMs provides links to services that enhance maternal and child health through nonclinical supports. In a supportive environment, women are connected to resources outside the program such as fresh food, diapers, social services and other community-based assistance.
Providing women with support during pregnancy and early motherhood can significantly enhance the health of families and reduce the risk of diabetes for the next generation. Learn more about how our strategy aims to make South Carolina diabetes-free.
