"Population explosion" still not over, says demographer

Popul Headl. 1998 Nov-Dec:(267):4.

Abstract

PIP: Current trends in reproductive behavior differ widely between regions of the world. Population Council Vice President Dr. John Bongaarts believes that despite falling fertility rates, both the number of births and population size will continue to grow in the developing world. The expected addition of several billion more people will frustrate efforts to reduce levels of poverty and achieve sustainable development. However, in parts of the developed world, especially Europe and Japan, already low fertility is causing concern over the potential adverse effects of an aging or declining population. Couples are stili having 2 children, but at an older age. Fertility rates in developed countries are not as low as they appear to be. Even though contraception is now more widely used in the developing world, and fertility is declining, total world population is projected to reach 10.4 billion by 2100. Large population increases are expected in Africa, Asia, and Latin America because fertility is about 50% above replacement level, mortality levels are declining, and the effects of population momentum. Population sizes in Europe, North America, Japan, Hong Kong, China, the Republic of Korea, and Singapore are projected to remain close to current levels for several decades. Concern over underpopulation in developed countries has been exaggerated. Investments need to be maintained in voluntary family planning and reproductive health programs, as well as to meet social goals such as educating girls and young women.

MeSH terms

  • Demography
  • Developed Countries*
  • Developing Countries*
  • Population
  • Population Density*
  • Population Dynamics
  • Population Growth*