Being born a Mississippian and surviving to blow out a single birthday cake candle is statistically more of a challenge than in most other states.

That is particularly so if you are born in the state’s poorest region or, statistically, to black parents.

But recent stats show the odds are improving — and that’s worth celebrating.

Mississippi’s rate of infant mortality has fallen over the last few years — at a rate greater than the drop in the national average.

“It’s important to celebrate these improvements,” Dr. Mary Currier, Mississippi’s state health officer said.

She’s correct.

Mississippi needs to acknowledge and applaud the improvements. But we also have much room to improve.

Mississippi’s rate is still far above the national average.

In 2014, the statewide average was that 8.2 deaths out of every 1,000 births.

Nationally, that rate is 5.9 deaths per 1,000 births.

In Mississippi race appears to play a factor as well, with 11.2 deaths per 1,000 births compared to 5.9 among whites last year.

Both numbers are down compared to recent high marks. In 2005, the black infant mortality rate was 17 deaths per 1,000 births.

Clearly the work being done to educate young mothers on the importance that they take good care of their health while pregnant — and after — is beginning to reap benefits. Continuing that work, promoting healthy eating habits and better exercise is actually a benefit to all Mississippians.

The money saved by lowering the number of high-cost births can easily be put to helping less preventable health problems our state faces.

Let’s celebrate the improvement, but recognize, the work must continue to help improve the viability of each precious human life.