The infant mortality rate is a measure that indicates the number of infants who die before reaching one year of age, per 1,000 live births in a given year. This statistic is often used to assess the overall health and well-being of a population, as it reflects factors such as healthcare quality, maternal health, and socioeconomic conditions. A high infant mortality rate can signal issues like inadequate access to medical care, poor nutrition, or unsafe living conditions. Conversely, a low rate typically suggests better healthcare systems and improved living standards, contributing to healthier outcomes for both mothers and their infants.