A Bronx-based organization is trying to prevent infant deaths by spreading the word about the importance of mommy and baby nutrition.

Presenters at a Lehman College forum are hoping their advice makes an impact as they continue to battle high rates of infant deaths in the city, which Bronx Health Link is calling a public health issue. Despite a dip in infant mortality rates throughout the city since 2003, New York City Department of Health data shows the highest rates in the Bronx were in 2012, with 5.8 deaths per 1,000 live births.

The DOH says Bronx neighborhoods have the highest infant mortality rates in the city, with nine deaths per 1,000 live births in East Tremont between 2010 and 2012. Right on its tail was Hunts Point with 8.7.

Bronx Health Link Director Paulette Spencer says these rates can be lowered through education about eating habits and breast feeding, and increased access to healthier foods.