Illustrative photo (Source: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – Hanoi has set a goalthis year to limit the imbalance of the sex ratio at birth and keep the rate at113 girls per 100 boys.
According to the municipal Department, localfamily planning work is facing difficulties due to the city’s large populationand area.
In 2018, the capital recorded the birth of117,784 babies, representing a rate of 15.13 births per 1,000, an annualdecrease of 0.17 per thousand. Meanwhile, the sex ratio at birth was 113 boysper 100 girls.
The city said this year, it will continueimplementing its project on screening tests before and during pregnancy toboost population quality. Communications campaigns to raise public awareness oncaring for children’s physical development via exercises and nutrition are alsoimportant.
Statistics show that sex imbalances at birthin Vietnam increased from 107 boys per 100 girls in 1999 to 110.5 in 2009,113.8 in 2013 and 112.2 at present. The imbalances are increasing and spreadingnationwide.
Up to 55 out of 63 cities and provinces havesex ratio at birth exceeding 108 boys per 100 girls, including Hanoi.
Sex imbalances at birth in Vietnam aremainly caused by the longstanding preference of males over females. Besides,people have easier access to affordable sex determination and sex selectiontechnology, which allow couples to pursue their desire for sons.
As such, Vietnam is expected to lack 2.3 to 4.3million women by 2050 if no prompt interventions are taken.-VNA
VNA
