Existing apathy
Sayila, A.K.
Integration 1992(32): 38-40
1992
ISSN/ISBN: 0916-0582 PMID: 12285555 Document Number: 326591
Almost 20 years after the formation of a modern family planning programme organization in Zambia, the country is far from realizing its goal of controlling its high rate of population growth. Some major strides have been made, particularly in raising the people's understanding of the advantages of modern methods of family planning as compared with the traditional ones which are practised in many parts of the country. However knowledge and practice of modern contraception remains more prevalent in the urban towns than in the rural parts of the country, due mainly to social and economic differences. There is also a high incidence of unwanted pregnancies, teenage pregnancies and illegal abortions, as well as many cases of sexually transmitted diseases, including AIDS. Other problems include adverse publicity in some medical circles concerning the side effects of the contraceptive pill, diminishing resources, inadequate information on family planning and a lack of adequate programmes for youth and other targeted groups. A lot more needs to be done to promote family planning, using both traditional and modern methods.