health
Colombia would need 78 years to eliminate adolescent pregnancy, according to the UN
Colombia faces a generational challenge regarding child pregnancy. According to data presented at the Latin American press meeting 'Transforming Lives', held in Mexico City, the country would take up to 78 years to reach zero pregnancies in girls between 10 and 14 years old, according to the United Nations Population Fund.
TL;DR
- Colombia is projected to take 78 years to eliminate pregnancies in girls aged 10-14, according to the UN Population Fund.
- Between 2020 and 2023, 3,821 births were registered in girls aged 10-14 in Colombia.
- 15% of Colombian women do not use any contraceptive method, and many lack knowledge about available options.
- Access to contraceptives is not well-defined, especially in rural areas, despite being part of the health benefits plan.
- Colombia's pharmaceutical industry is working on reducing doses for chronic disease treatments to lower costs and expand coverage.
- Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, strokes, and cancer are the most prevalent chronic illnesses in Colombia.
- Experts urge Colombia to create public policies and incentives to boost medical innovation.