Kokonaishedelmällisyys

Kokonaishedelmällisyys, often abbreviated as TFR (Total Fertility Rate), is a demographic indicator that represents the average number of children a woman would have over her lifetime if she were to experience the current age-specific fertility rates throughout her reproductive years. It is a hypothetical measure, as actual fertility patterns can change over a woman's life.

The TFR is calculated by summing the age-specific fertility rates for women of childbearing age, typically from 15 to 49 years. This rate provides a snapshot of fertility levels at a particular point in time and is a crucial tool for understanding population dynamics and planning for future societal needs.

Globally, TFRs vary significantly by region and country, influenced by factors such as socioeconomic development, access to education and healthcare, cultural norms, and government policies. A TFR of approximately 2.1 children per woman is considered the replacement level, meaning that the population would remain stable in the absence of migration.

A TFR above 2.1 generally indicates population growth, while a TFR below 2.1 suggests a declining population. Changes in TFR can have profound implications for a country's age structure, workforce, healthcare systems, and social security programs. Monitoring and understanding TFR trends are therefore essential for policymakers and demographers.