Number of Babies Born in Canada Drops to 17-Year Low Amid COVID-19 Pandemic and Declining Fertility Rate
New data reveals that the number of babies born in Canada reached a 17-year low last year, primarily due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a decreasing fertility rate. Statistics Canada’s recently released report indicates that there were 351,679 registered births nationwide in 2022, representing a 5% decline from the previous year. This decline marks Canada’s most significant drop since 2005, when the lowest number of births was recorded at 345,044.
While there was a decrease in the number of births across all provinces and territories in 2022, Nova Scotia stood out with a notable 12.8% increase in live births. On the other hand, Nunavut experienced the biggest decline, with the number of births dropping by 11.8% compared to 2021.
Canada, like other developed countries, has been witnessing a decline in birth rates in recent years. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has further influenced people’s plans to start families. Kate Choi, an associate professor of sociology at Western University, explains that although Canada has been experiencing a continuous decline in fertility, the impact of COVID-19 has led to a larger-than-expected decrease in birth rates.
Choi emphasizes that the high cost of living has exacerbated the decline in births. She mentions that the expensive nature of raising children, coupled with the current economic climate, has made it challenging for young adults to afford the lifestyle necessary to have children, ultimately leading to postponed or forgone fertility.
This declining trend in birth rates poses concerns for Canada, as it contributes to population aging issues. Choi states that Canada is classified as a low-fertility country, and its fertility rate has been declining for the past decade. The latest data from Statistics Canada in 2021 reported a fertility rate of 1.44 children per woman, with a slight increase following a steady decline since 2009.
One notable trend accompanying the decline in births is the increasing use of egg freezing and other fertility treatments in Canada, as couples delay their plans to have children for various reasons.
Mark Rosenberg, an expert in geography and professor emeritus at Queen’s University, highlights that lifestyle changes and work decisions are contributing factors to smaller families. He mentions that women are postponing childbirth until their 30s due to career commitments. Additionally, there is a rising number of younger individuals living in single-person households.
Despite the decline in births, Canada’s overall population continues to grow rapidly, surpassing 40 million people earlier this year. This growth can be attributed to a deliberate focus on increasing immigration.
The recent report from Statistics Canada also revealed an increase in the proportion of babies born with low birth weights, which refers to less than 2,500 grams. In 2022, 7% of all babies had a low birth weight, compared to 6.6% the previous year. Babies with low birth weights face an increased risk of various complications, including impaired growth, developmental issues, and even death.
Mark Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of addressing these concerns, as they directly impact people’s health. He urges for attention to be given to issues such as higher rates of low birth weight babies or babies born overweight.
Despite the challenges associated with declining birth rates, Canada’s population growth remains significant due to immigration. This balancing act between decreasing birth rates and increasing immigration will shape the demographic landscape of the country in the coming years.
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