Between 2008 and 2018, Rochester teen birth rates declined by 68%. This positive health trend is due to several factors: increased youth access to reproductive health care, more sexuality education in our schools and youth programs, peer leadership programs and informative media campaigns.
However the problem is not solved. The teen birth rate in Rochester is still 1.5 times the national rate, and more than twice the rate in NYS. The rate of teen birth is 6 times the rate in Monroe County towns and suburbs.
In 2019, 223 teen girls (ages 15-19) gave birth in the City of Rochester, a rate of 27 births per 1,000 girls. In 2024, these 223 babies, if grouped together, would fill 11 kindergarten classrooms. 7% of all the babies born in Rochester in 2019 were born to teens.
Teen parents obtain less education than their peers; and the children of teen parents face more academic, behavioral and health challenges, compared to children born to older parents.
Youth, parents, health professionals, teachers, faith leaders, concerned citizens and elected officials all have a role to play. To find out what more can be done, contact us.
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metrocouncilrochester.org 