When there is less money in the economy it seems there are also fewer births. According to new research published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, birth rates are lower for 2010 than 2009 and the economy may be to blame. Total birth numbers dropped by 3% in just one year. Numbers also dropped for teen births and C-sections. Birth rates in 2010 were the lowest in more than 70 years, in the teen category.
In 2009, 4.1 million births were recorded across all age groups. In 2010, that number dropped to just more than 4 million for a 3% total decline in births. Specific drops noted in the report include a decline in unmarried births from 1.69 million in 2009 to 1.63 million in 2010 and a 6% drop in births in the early 20s age group. Drops in birth rates were measured from teens to age 44.
Researchers and economists blame the economy for the sharp decline in births. If couples are uncertain about their financial future they are less likely to start a family or grow a family. This change, however, does not represent changes in teen births. Some experts believe the lower teen birth rate is associated with increased education and may not have any association with the economy.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention publishes the Births report each year. If the economy stays at the current level, there should be a consistent decline in births in 2011 to further support the link between money and birth rates.
Source: Brady E. Hamilton, Ph.D.; Joyce A. Martin, M.P.H.; Stephanie J. Ventura, M.A. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 18 November, 2011.