Ann Arbor area residents are asked to join the Coalition for Infant Mortality Reduction in its 3X More Likely campaign to raise awareness of the racial disparities in infant mortality rates.

According to a Washtenaw County Public Health Department news release, African American babies are three times more likely to die before their first birthday than white babies.

The event will take place from noon to 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 4 at the Washtenaw County Public Health Department, 555 Towner St., in Ypsilanti.

The campaign will address women's health and infant mortality in Washtenaw County, according to the news release.

Not only is the infant mortality rate higher for African American babies, but they're also two times more likely to be born premature or with a low birth weight, according to the news release.

Event attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about a free health insurance called PLAN FIRST!, and the importance of regular check-ups and family planning.

In 2000, infant mortality among African Americans occurred at a rate of 14.1 deaths per 1,000 live births, according to the Centers for Disease Control, compared to a national average of 6.9 deaths per 1,000 live births.

In its World Factbook, the Central Intelligence Agency estimates the United States' infant mortality rate in 2010 to be 6.22.

On the list of infant mortality rates in 224 countries, the U.S. ranks No. 180. The country with the lowest infant mortality rate — Singapore, at 2.31 deaths per 1,000 live births.

Heather Lockwood is a reporter for AnnArbor.com, reach her at heatherlockwood@annarbor.com or follow her on Twitter.