Despite the welfare of the U.S., the federal republic has the highest rate of infant mortality, says the CIA World Fact Book.

“Babyland,” a one-hour report from ABC’s “20/20,” hosted by Elizabeth Vargas, is broadcasting a story about the toll of infant mortality in Memphis, as well as in Shelby County, where a baby passes away every 43 hours. According to Tom Yellin, executive producer for the documentary film, the situation in Memphis is similar with many other American cities’ situations.   

The television journalist travels there and converses with doctors and nurses who have seen babies dying for decades.

Tennessee’s infant mortality rate is ranked 45th in contrast with other states, 2006 data – the most recent one – shows. The infant mortality rate (IMR) for Tennessee’s Afro American newborns is more than twice the rate for white newborns.  

The large number of babies dying, which is ascribed mainly to premature births, is particularly high in impoverished African-Americans.

The documentary report presenting IMR in Memphis and Shelby County is to air tonight at 10 p.m. on ABC.

“The state is moving in the right direction by engaging local community leaders and partners, providing cutting-edge care, and implementing evidence-based practices,” stated Bob Duncan, head of the Governor’s Office of Children’s Care Coordination. “This multipronged approach is allowing us to sow seeds that when sufficiently nurtured will change the infrastructure, allowing us to reap rewards for decades to come,” he concluded.