Economic and environmental implications of changes in health status and reduced fertility

The report assesses the extent and nature of these linkages, the differences among them in Asia Bureau countries, and the feasibility of establishing economic and/or environmental rationales in support of health, population, and nutrition (HPN) activities. Key findings are as follows. (1) While family planning programs can be effective, contributing as much as 80% of fertility declines, effectiveness depends on favorable economic and social conditions, as in Thailand. The relative priority of economic growth and fertility declines continues to be debated. (2) Improved health status -- of which women"s health is an integral part -- can spur economic growth by decreasing health care expenditures, increasing productivity, etc. Economic growth, however, while important, is not absolutely necessary for improving health status. It is likely that economic growth must be translated into cost-effective health interventions for improvement in health status to occur. (3) While the exact nature of the linkages among health, population, and environment cannot be determined empirically, the widespread acceptance of linkages argues for continued funding of family planning and maternal/child health programs, especially in Asia"s rapidly growing urban areas. It seems generally agreed that environmental programs can be successful only if population growth rates are reduced. Areas for further research are noted in conclusion.