The present demographic situation in Armenia arouses serious concern. If the current population growth rates continue, the Armenian population will reduce twice in 40-45 years, Gayane Avagyan, Senior Specialist, Maternity and Child Care Department, RA Ministry of Health, told a press conference.

As regards population growth, Armenia ranks 205th among 229 countries, she said. “For the present population size to be preserved each family has to have at least two children, while three and more children have to be born for the population to increase,” Avagyan said. She pointed out that Armenian women most often have children at the age of 25-32, and men at the age of 25-35. However, social reasons cause the age limits to rise.

Speaking of the problem of sterility, she pointed out a considerable reduction in sterility rate in Armenia recently. Specifically, the primary sterility rate is 5.3% for women and 2.7% for men. The second sterility rate is 11% and 2.6% respectively. Among the causes are infections, endocrine diseases and impotence. Only 8% of the cases are considered incurable. Avagyan said that treatment of sterility and artificial insemination are expensive. She hopes that the Government will be able to subsidize the treatment of socially vulnerable families.

The experts pointed out that the Government has budgeted funds for women during childbirth and post-childbirth period. “Women receive 50,000 AMD after having the first child and 450,000 after having the third. Also, the monthly child benefit is 18,000 AMD,” Avagyan said. She pointed out that the Government’s measures are aimed to increase birthrate. Avagyan also reported that cesarean births constitute 13-14 per cent in Armenia.

As regards cancer, particularly cervical carcinoma, she said that necessary analyses are made free of charge. Also, vaccination is available for women. “We intend to purchase vaccines and carry out compulsory vaccination of teenagers aged 15-16,” Avagyan said.

T.P.