Despite a citywide drop in the infant mortality rate, the Bronx continues to experience many infant deaths.

The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says the rate dropped to six out of every 1,000 births. Although the Bronx also saw a decrease, officials say a major gap remains. Experts attribute the problem to a mother?s income and poor access to health care. Doctors urge mothers not to use tobacco, alcohol or drugs, which contribute to low birth weight.

The city is pumping more than $3 million into a visiting nurse service program for low-income, first-time mothers to further lower the infant mortality rate.

Related InformationNew York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene ? Infant Deaths