Between 2008 and 2015, Rochester teen birth rates declined by 55%. These positive health trends are 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 1.8 times the national rate, and 2.4 times the rate in NYS. The rate of teen birth is 7 times the rate in Monroe County towns and suburbs.
In 2015, 301 teen girls (ages 15-19) gave birth in the City of Rochester, a rate of 36 births per 1,000 girls. In 2020, these 301 babies, if grouped together, would fill 14 kindergarten classrooms. 10% of all the babies born in Rochester in 2015 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.