The NHS Cumbria report found a strong link between lifestyles and unsuccessful pregnancies.
One in five mothers reviewed for the report had a body mass index (BMI) of more than 35, and a third of the mothers smoked during pregnancy.
In comparison, from the general maternity population, around one in ten mothers have a BMI of more than 35 and one in six smoke throughout their pregnancy.
A report has found that although the number of stillbirths and infant mortality cases in Cumbria are declining, more can still be done to prevent deaths.
The NHS Cumbria report shows the county has fewer perinatal deaths than the national average, but urges local hospitals and expectant mothers to help reduce the number further.
The research panel have recommended that tackling lifestyle issues such as smoking and obesity can help give the mother and child the best chance of survival.
They also suggest that local hospitals carry out more individual case reviews in order to learn from what has happened.
– Professor John Ashton, Cumbria Medical Director"The number of babies in Cumbria who die shortly before or soon after birth is a tiny proportion of 5,000 births which take place in the county each year.
"The findings from this research are clear in demonstrating the damaging and destructive impact a poor lifestyle can have on a healthy pregnancy. More must be done to reduce smoking and obesity in particular, if we are to see greater improvements in the health of mothers and babies."
Work has begun on a major renovation of Keswick Hospital.
It's part of a drive by NHS Cumbria to bring standards in community hospitals to new national levels.
The development will increase the range of services and cut down the number of patients having to travel long distances for simple procedures.
Ryan Dollard has the full report:
With the new year just a few days old, people in the region are being urged to think about improving their health in 2013.
NHS Cumbria want everyone to think about cuting down on how much they smoke and drink and to improve their diet.
People across Cumbria will have the opportunity to discuss any concerns they have about alcohol, during a live webchat.
The chat is part of alcohol awareness week and offers people the chance to discuss issues such as the effect alcohol has, and drink driving laws.
The chat will take place between 10am and 12pm, with representatives from NHS Cumbria and Cumbria Police responding to questions.
People can join in by visiting the Cumbria Police website.
The complete webchat will be posted online afterwards.