Title: Abortion surveillance: trends, characteristics and the necessity of data collection.

POPLINE Document Number: 273963

Author(s):

Whitcomb DJ

Source citation:

AWHONN Lifelines, 2004 Apr-May;8(2):112-115.

Abstract:

In 1969, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) began abortion surveillance to document the number and characteristics of women obtaining legal induced abortions. The data have been published every year since 1970 and recently was released in the November 28 issue of the CDC’s “Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report” (MMWR). The report, entitled “Abortion Surveillance— U.S., 2000,” reveals that the total number of legal induced abortions performed in the U.S. for 2000 was down from 1999, and has been on the decline for a decade. It’s important for health care professionals to understand the collection of this information, and where it can be obtained, as well as to monitor these trends so that we can better understand the differing aspects and evolving patterns of this elective pregnancy outcome. It’s equally important to recognize the necessity of having such data resources available for health care professionals and advocates. (excerpt)

Keywords:

United States
Summary Report
Data Collection
Abortion
Abortion Rate
CDC
Funds
North America
Americas
Developed Countries
Research Methodology
Fertility Control, Postconception
Family Planning
USPHS
Government Agencies
Organizations
Financial Activities
Economic Factors