Which of the following is one of the leading causes of infant death?

Birth defects are indeed one of the leading causes of infant death. They encompass a wide range of physical or functional abnormalities that are present at birth and can significantly impact a child's health and development. These defects can involve the heart, brain, spine, and other major organ systems, leading to serious complications that can result in mortality in the infant's early life.

The prevalence of birth defects as a cause of infant death highlights the importance of prenatal care, genetic counseling, and early intervention strategies. Many birth defects can be detected through screening during pregnancy, allowing for informed decision-making and better management post-birth.

While other conditions like severe allergies, diabetes, and obesity can significantly affect health, they do not rank as leading causes of infant mortality in the same way birth defects do. Understanding this distinction is vital for practitioners focusing on perinatal mental health and overall infant care.