Health benefits of having a baby need to be emphasised
In the recent Diploma of Secondary Education English writing paper, there was a question about Hong
Kong’s low birth rate. This topic resonates with me as during my master’s studies on population health in London, my colleagues were often astonished by our remarkably low birth rate, despite our notably high life expectancy.
In reality, this trend is not unique to Hong Kong, but rather a global occurrence. Even in India, which recently surpassed China as the world’s most populated country, there has been a noticeable decline in the birth rate.
Hong Kong is particularly susceptible to this issue as people live longer. The decreasing birth rate is unsustainable for our city’s future as it signifies a diminishing workforce and a higher proportion of elderly people in the population.
The reasons behind Hong Kong’s low birth rate are multifaceted. Many attribute it to financial constraints, as young married couples struggle to afford their own home in the face of skyrocketing housing prices, along with the expenses involved in providing their children with quality schooling, tutorials and other kinds of training in this highly competitive city.
Another reason applicable not only to Hong Kong but to the world at large is the rise of individualism among women. Women are increasingly focusing on education and their career, and less on childbearing.
Last year, the government announced that the family of each baby born would be eligible for a HK$20,000 cash incentive. While this incentive is just a fraction of the substantial cost of raising a child, it is a commendable starting point.
However, more efforts are needed. It is notable that government advertisements or promotions advocating the benefits of having a baby are scarce, if not entirely absent. We often see television advertisements or posters promoting the health benefits of quitting smoking or exercising, but are the public aware of the benefits of having a baby?
For instance, research shows that giving birth can help reduce the incidence of diseases such as breast and ovarian cancer. The authorities could consider publicising this kind of medical information when promoting fertility.
Fertility is as vital as any other major public health issue, not to mention its implications for our city’s development. Hong Kong society should undoubtedly make more of an effort to address the birth rate.