- 1. What is the Pakistan Demographic Survey (PDS), 2020?
PDS 2020 is the twentieth round of a series of demographic surveys initiated in 1984. It provides detailed information on various demographic indicators for the years 2018-2020 at the national level with an urban-rural breakdown.
- How often is the PDS conducted?
The survey has been conducted approximately every few years since 1984 to 2007. The most recent round, PDS 2020, was carried out after a gap of 13 years.
- What are the key demographic indicators covered in the survey?
The survey covers indicators such as Life Expectancy, Crude Birth Rate, Crude Death Rate, General Fertility Rate, Age-Specific Fertility Rates, Age-Specific Death Rates, Infant Mortality Rate, and Rate of Natural Increase.
- When were the field activities of the twentieth round carried out?
The field activities for PDS 2020 were conducted from April 28, 2021, to October 15, 2021.
- How is data collected in PDS 2020 different from previous rounds?
For the first time, data collection in PDS 2020 was tablet-based, utilizing electronic devices. This marks a shift from traditional data collection methods to digital Data Collection
- What is the significance of the urban-rural breakdown in the survey?
Results of the survey are compiled at the National level with an urban-rural breakdown, providing a detailed understanding of demographic trends in different settings.
- How was data collection monitored and edited in PDS 2020?
Software for data collection, real-time monitoring and online editing was developed by the Data Processing Centre of PBS, facilitating efficient and accurate data collection.
- How does the credibility of PDS increase according to the information provided?
The results of PDS 2020 were compared with relevant indicators of PDHS 2017-18 and PSLM 2018-19, and the majority of the indicators from the two surveys showed close proximity, increasing the credibility of PDS.
- Why was the Pakistan Demographic Survey (PDS) launched in 2020?
The PDS-2020 was initiated to address the deficiency in demographic data resulting from the postponements in launching the Population and Housing Census. The last demographic survey before PDS-2020 was conducted in 2007.
- What are the major indicators covered in the PDS-2020?
The major indicators include General Fertility Rate (GFR), Total Fertility Rate (TFR), Crude Birth Rate (CBR), Crude Death Rate (CDR), Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), and Rate of Natural Increase (RNI).
- How were the sample design of PDS selected?
A stratified two-stage sample design was adopted for the survey. The sampling frame included urban and rural areas of the four provinces of Pakistan, excluding military restricted areas. The sample design involved enumeration blocks with well-defined maps and boundaries.
- What is the objective of the PDS-2020?
The primary objectives of PDS-2020 were to measure fertility and mortality rates in Pakistan, estimate the current Rate of Natural Increase at the National level, and collect information on selected indicators (GFR, TFR, CBR, CDR, IMR, life expectancy at birth) for planning and development programs.
- How was data collected for the PDS-2020?
Female enumerators were involved for the first time in data collection, and a team approach was used. The data collection employed a random sampling method with a reference period from January 1st to December 31st, 2020.
- What were the challenges faced during the PDS-2020?
Challenges in demographic surveys included logistical issues, data accuracy, and ensuring comprehensive coverage.
- How often is the PDS planned to be conducted?
There was a gap in conducting demographic surveys after 2007 due to postponements in launching the census. The need for regular launches of PDS was emphasized by the technical committee of PDS to meet the demands of planners and policymakers.
- Why is it important to measure fertility and mortality rates?
Fertility and mortality rates are key indicators of population dynamics. Measuring these rates helps understand population growth, health outcomes, and informs policy decisions.
- Why is there a need for an urban and rural breakdown in demographic data?
Urban and rural areas often have distinct demographic patterns. Breaking down data by these categories provides a more detailed understanding of population dynamics, which is essential for targeted policy interventions.
- 19. How does the survey contribute to planning and development programs?
The collected demographic data serves as a foundation for planning and development programs. It helps policymakers understand population trends, healthcare needs, and other factors crucial for effective program design and implementation.
- How can demographic data be used in policy formulation?
Accurate demographic data informs evidence-based policy formulation. Policymakers can use the collected information to design targeted interventions in areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure, addressing the specific needs of the population.
AGE COMPOSITION
- What is the age distribution in Pakistan according to the PDS-2020?
The PDS-2020 indicates that the proportion of children under 15 years is 35.5% for females and 37.84% for males. The highest proportion of the population is in the age group 15-64 years, with 57.18% for males and 57.78% for females. The age group 65 years and above has the lowest proportion, with only about 3 to 4 percent of the population.
- What does the high proportion of young people in Pakistan suggest?
The large proportion of young people suggests a current high fertility rate in Pakistan. It also indicates that the population is likely to continue growing even during a period of declining fertility.
- How does the age distribution differ between males and females in Pakistan?
The age distribution is similar for both males and females. The highest proportion of the population is in the age group 15-64 years for both genders, while the proportion of children under 15 years is slightly higher for males (37.84%) compared to females (35.5%).
- What percentage of the population in Pakistan is considered old (65 years and above)?
The proportion of old persons (65 years and over) is quite low, ranging from 3 to 4 percent of the total population.
- What are the implications of the age distribution on population growth in Pakistan?
The large proportion of young people suggests that the population of Pakistan is likely to continue growing. Even though there is a decline in fertility, the high percentage of individuals in the younger age groups contributes to ongoing population growth.
- How does the age composition reflect on the working-age population in Pakistan?
The majority of the population (both males and females) falls within the working-age range of 15-64 years. This demographic structure has implications for labor force participation, economic productivity, and social development in the country.
SEX RATIO
- What is the sex ratio in PDS-2020?
The sex ratio in PDS-2020 is 103, meaning there are 103 males for every 100 females.
- How does the sex ratio in PDS-2020 compare to Census 2017?
The sex ratio in PDS-2020 is lower than that in Census 2017. PDS-2020 has a sex ratio of 103, while Census 2017 had a sex ratio of 105.
- What is the sex ratio in urban areas according to the mentioned data?
The sex ratio in urban areas is 104, indicating 104 males for every 100 females.
- Is there a difference in the sex ratio between urban and rural areas?
Yes, there is a difference. The sex ratio is higher in urban areas (104) compared to rural areas (102).
- How is the sex ratio calculated?
The sex ratio is calculated as the number of males per 100 females in a given population. It provides an indication of the distribution of males and females in a particular area or among a specific group.
- What factors could contribute to variations in sex ratios across different surveys?
Variations in sex ratios can be influenced by various factors, including demographic changes, migration patterns, social and cultural factors, and differences in survey methodologies.
- Why is it important to consider the sex ratio in both urban and rural areas separately?
Analyzing sex ratios in urban and rural areas separately provides insights into regional variations. The difference in sex ratios between urban and rural areas may be influenced by different social and economic dynamics in these settings.
HOUSEHOLD SIZE
- What is the size of households in Pakistan according to PDS-2020?
The average household size in Pakistan, according to PDS-2020, is reported to be 6 persons per household.
- How is a household defined?
Household is defined as all the people occupying a housing unit and sharing their meals. It can include unrelated persons or individuals related by birth, marriage, or adoption.
- What types of housing units are considered as households in PDS?
PDS indicates that a house, an apartment, or other group of rooms, or even a single room, is regarded as a housing unit.
- Are there differences in household size between rural and urban areas in Pakistan?
Yes, Household size is reported to be higher in rural areas of Pakistan compared to urban areas.
- How many people, on average, make up a household in Pakistan?
The average household size in Pakistan is stated to be six to seven persons living and eating together in a single household.
- What factors contribute to the larger household sizes in Pakistan?
The cultural or social norms in Pakistan may play a specific role in contributing to larger household sizes.
- Does a household in Pakistan always consist of a single family?
No, a household may consist of a single family or more than one family who share their meals and have a joint kitchen.
- How is the concept of a household important for social and demographic analysis?
Understanding household size and composition is crucial for analyzing social structures, demographic trends, and planning various services, such as housing and healthcare, in a given region.
- What is the average household size in Pakistan?
The average household size in Pakistan is 6 persons.
- What percentage of households in Pakistan has four or fewer members?
About 30 percent of all households in Pakistan have four or fewer members.
- How does the average household size differ between rural and urban areas in Pakistan?
The average household size is higher in rural areas (6.06 persons) compared to urban areas (5.87 persons).
- What percentage of the population lives in households with 5 or fewer persons in urban areas?
In urban areas, households with 5 or fewer persons constitute about 50 percent of the total households.
- What is the distribution of households based on size in Pakistan?
Households with 5 or fewer persons make up approximately 48 percent of the total households.
- What percentage of the population lives in households with sizes ranging from 6 to 9 members in Pakistan?
43 percent of the population in Pakistan lives in households with sizes ranging from 6 to 9 members.
- What percentage of households in Pakistan has 10 or more members?
8.6 percent of households in Pakistan have 10 or more members.
- How do urban and rural areas differ in terms of households with sizes ranging from 6 to 9 members?
In urban areas, 43 percent of the population lives in households with sizes ranging from 6 to 9 members.
In rural areas, 44 percent of the population lives in households with sizes ranging from 6 to 9 members.
- What percentage of households in rural areas have 10 or more members?
In rural areas, households with 10 or more members constitute 9.4 percent of the total.
- What percentage of households in urban areas has 10 or more members?
In urban areas, households with 10 or more members constitute 7.1 percent of the total.
- What is the percentage of single-person households in Pakistan?
Single-person households represent 1.2 percent of the total households in Pakistan.
CRUDE BIRTH RATE (CBR)
- What is Crude Birth Rate (CBR)?
CBR measures the number of births during a year per 1000 persons in a population. It is a simple way to assess the current fertility level in a given population.
- Why is it called “crude” birth rate?
The term “crude” is used because it considers the total population in the denominator and does not take into account age or sex differences among the population.
- What is the Crude Birth Rate according to PDS-2020?
The Crude Birth Rate reported in PDS-2020 for the year 2020 is 27 per 1000 persons.
- What are the limitations of using Crude Birth Rate to measure fertility?
Fertility, as measured by CBR, includes certain segments of the population in the denominator that are not “exposed to risk” of child-bearing, indicating limitations in capturing the complete fertility picture.
TOTAL FERTILITY RATE (TFR) AND AGE SPECIFIC FERTILITY RATE (ASFR)
- What is Age-Specific Fertility Rate (ASFR)?
ASFR measures the number of annual births to women in specific age groups per 1,000 women in the same age group. It helps analyze fertility trends across different age categories.
- What age groups show lower fertility rates?
Fertility rates are comparatively low among women aged less than 20 years and those over 39 years.
- At what age does fertility reach its peak?
Fertility rates reach their peak in the age group 25-29 years, with a sharp increase observed in the 20-24 age groups.
- How does fertility change with age?
Fertility rates decline gradually from ages 30 to 39 and rapidly decline for the age groups 40-44 and 45-49 years.
- Is there a difference in fertility between urban and rural areas?
Yes, the Age-Specific Fertility Rate is higher in rural areas compared to urban areas across all age groups.
- How can this information be used by policymakers?
Policymakers can use this data to inform strategies related to reproductive health, family planning, and population management, considering the variations in fertility across age groups and geographical areas.
- What implications does the observed fertility trend have for population dynamics?
The observed fertility trend can have implications for population growth and age structure, influencing policies related to healthcare, education, and social welfare.
- Are there any recommendations for addressing fertility-related issues based on this data?
Recommendations might include targeted family planning programs, educational campaigns, and healthcare initiatives focused on specific age groups and regions with higher fertility rates.
- What is Total Fertility Rate (TFR)?
Total Fertility Rate (TFR) is a demographic indicator that represents the average number of children a woman would have during her reproductive years, based on the age-specific fertility rates of a given year.
- Why is TFR considered a useful indicator of fertility?
TFR is considered useful because it provides a comprehensive picture of the current fertility level in a population, taking into account age-specific fertility rates. It is less influenced by the age structure of the population.
- What is the TFR values mentioned in the PDS 2020?
In PDS 2020, the TFR for urban areas is 3.1, for rural areas it is 4.1, and at the National level, it is 3.7.
- Why is there a difference in TFR between urban and rural areas?
The rural-urban difference in TFR could be influenced by various factors, including awareness, access to health facilities, cultural norms, and family planning practices. Urbanization is often associated with lower fertility rates globally.
- What is the significance of the rural-urban difference in TFR?
The rural-urban difference in TFR reflects variations in fertility patterns between different settings. Understanding these differences is important for designing targeted policies and interventions to address specific challenges in either urban or rural areas.
- What factors could contribute to the rural-urban difference in TFR?
Factors contributing to the rural-urban difference may include disparities in access to healthcare, education, economic opportunities, cultural beliefs, and family planning practices.
CRUDE DEATH RATE
- What is the Crude Death Rate (CDR)?
The Crude Death Rate is the number of deaths that occur in a population during a specified period (usually a year) per 1000 persons. It is a crude measure because it does not account for the age distribution of the population.
- How is the Crude Death Rate calculated?
The formula for calculating the Crude Death Rate is:
= (Number of deaths during the year/ Mid-year population) ×1000
- What does a Crude Death Rate of 6.7 per thousand persons for Pakistan in 2020 mean?
It means that, on average, there were 6.7 deaths for every 1000 people in Pakistan during the year 2020.
- How does the Crude Death Rate vary between urban and rural areas in Pakistan?
The Crude Death Rate is 6.6 for urban areas and 6.7 for rural areas. This indicates that, on average, there are slightly more deaths per thousand persons in rural areas compared to urban areas.
- Why is the Crude Death Rate considered a crude measure?
The Crude Death Rate does not consider the age distribution of the population. As mortality rates vary significantly with age, this measure may not provide an accurate comparison of mortality risks between populations with different age structures.
- Why is the Crude Death Rate higher in rural areas than in urban areas?
The reasons for the difference in Crude Death Rates between urban and rural areas could be influenced by factors such as healthcare accessibility, lifestyle, socioeconomic conditions, and other demographic characteristics that vary between these two settings.
- What is the limitation of the Crude Death Rate in comparing mortality across populations?
The limitation is that the Crude Death Rate does not account for the age distribution of the population. Therefore, comparisons between populations with different age structures may be misleading, as the age composition strongly influences mortality rates.
MORTALITY RATES
- What alternative measures are suggested for comparing mortality in different populations?
More refined measures, such as age-specific death rates or standardized mortality rates, are suggested for comparing mortality in different populations, especially those with varying age structures. These measures provide a more accurate reflection of mortality risks.
- What is the Age Specific Death Rate (ASDR)?
The ASDR is a measure of the number of deaths occurring in a specific age group, often expressed per 1,000 or 100,000 populations within that age group.
- How does the ASDR vary across different age groups?
The ASDR typically starts high immediately after birth, declines to a minimum for young ages (5-14 years), rises gradually in the 40-44 age group, and then increases rapidly at advanced ages.
- Are there gender differences in survivorship globally?
Yes, females generally have higher chances of survivorship worldwide, with only a few exceptions.
- Are there specific age ranges where males have higher mortality rates than females?
Yes, there’s a slight bump in mortality for men aged 25-29, possibly attributed to increased risky behavior and subsequent deaths due to accidents.
- What factors contribute to declining mortality rates?
Factors such as advancements in healthcare, improved sanitation, disease control, and access to medical facilities contribute to declining mortality rates.
INFANT MORTALITY RATE (IMR)
- What is Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)?
IMR measures the number of infant deaths (deaths below one year of age) during a calendar year per 1000 live births in the same year.
- Why is IMR considered an important indicator?
IMR is considered important as it reflects socio-economic conditions, cultural factors, hygiene status, and the availability and utilization of medical services in a region.
- What are the regional disparities in IMR in Pakistan?
Rural areas have a higher IMR (59) compared to urban areas (50), attributed to better Neo-Natal and Post-Natal facilities in urban areas.
- Is there a gender difference in Infant Mortality Rate in Pakistan?
Yes, there is a gender difference. The Male Infant Mortality Rate is 58, which is higher than the female Infant Mortality Rate of 55 across all areas.
- What are the implications of the reported IMR data for policymakers?
The data suggests that efforts may be needed to improve healthcare facilities, especially in rural areas, to further reduce the overall IMR. Additionally, addressing gender disparities is crucial for improving child health outcomes.
- Why is the decline in IMR still a cause for concern in Pakistan?
While there is a decline in IMR, it is still relatively high, indicating a need for continued efforts to enhance healthcare services and reduce infant mortality further.
NEONATAL AND POST-NEONATAL MORTALITY RATES
- What is Neonatal Mortality?
Neonatal mortality refers to the death of infants within the first month after birth.
- What is Post-Neonatal Mortality?
Post-Neonatal Mortality measures the mortality rate for infants between one month and one year of age.
- According to PDS-2020, what years were considered for calculating Neonatal and Post-Neonatal Mortality rates?
The data for Neonatal and Post-Neonatal Mortality rates in PDS-2020 is based on the years 2018 to 2020.
- What are the Neonatal Mortality rates in rural and urban areas?
In rural areas, Neonatal Mortality is reported as 44, while in urban areas, it is 39.
- Is there a gender difference in Infant Mortality Rates based on the provided data?
Yes, there is a gender difference. The Male Infant Mortality Rate is reported as 58, which is higher than the Female Infant Mortality Rate of 55 in all areas.
- What challenges are mentioned in relation to neonatal mortality in low- and middle-income countries?
Challenges include poor health systems, inadequate infrastructure, and critical shortages of health personnel capable of providing quality care.
- Why is Neonatal Mortality a challenge in low- and middle-income countries?
Neonatal mortality is a challenge due to factors such as poor health systems, lack of infrastructure, and shortages of qualified health personnel in these regions.
- What does the data suggest about the state of neonatal mortality in urban and rural areas?
The data suggests that neonatal mortality is high in both urban and rural areas, with slightly higher rates in rural areas.
- Why is addressing neonatal mortality important for overall public health?
Addressing neonatal mortality is crucial for improving overall public health by ensuring the well-being of infants and reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
CAUSES OF DEATH IN 2020
- What was the major cause of death globally in 2020?
Cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease and stroke, were the leading global cause of death in 2020, accounting for 14.74% of total deaths.
- 99. What were the other significant causes of death in 2020?
Fever, paralysis, cancers, and diabetes were among the other notable causes of death in 2020, with varying percentages.
- Are cardiovascular diseases limited to a specific type?
Cardiovascular diseases mentioned include both ischemic heart disease and stroke.
- What is the percentage of deaths attributed to cancers in 2020?
Cancers accounted for 5.5% of deaths in 2020.
RATE OF NATURAL INCREASE (RNI)
- What is the Rate of Natural Increase (RNI)?
The Rate of Natural Increase is the percentage change in a population over a specific period due to the difference between the number of births and deaths.
- How is the RNI calculated?
The RNI is calculated by subtracting the death rate from the birth rate and expressing the result as a percentage of the base population.
- What does an RNI of 2.0 for the year 2020 mean?
An RNI of 2.0 for 2020 indicates a 2% increase in the population during that year, with the surplus of births over deaths contributing to this growth.
- Why has there been a high RNI in recent decades?
The high RNI is attributed to a steadily declining trend in mortality rates (indicating improved health conditions) and a moderately declining trend in fertility rates.
LIFE EXPECTANCY
- What is life expectancy at birth, and how is it calculated?
Life expectancy at birth is a summary measure obtained from a life table. It represents the average number of years a person can expect to live from birth, assuming current age-specific death rates persist throughout their life. The calculation involves analyzing mortality data and population statistics.
- Why is life expectancy at birth considered a reliable index for international comparisons?
Life expectancy at birth is independent of the age structure of a population. This makes it a more reliable index for international comparisons of mortality levels and the social and economic conditions of a country, as it reflects the overall health and longevity of a population.
- What were the reported life expectancies in Pakistan for the years 2019 and 2020?
According to the Maternal Mortality Survey (PMMS)-2019, the life expectancy at birth in Pakistan was 65.4 years. In PDS-2020, the reported life expectancy for the year 2020 in Pakistan is 65 years.
- What is the gender breakdown of life expectancy in Pakistan for the year 2020?
In PDS-2020, the life expectancy at birth for males is reported as 64.5 years, while for females, it is 65.5 years.
- How does life expectancy vary for the age group 1-4 in Pakistan?
The life expectancy increases for the age group 1-4 in Pakistan. For males aged 1-4, the life expectancy is 70.6 years, and for females aged 1-4, it is 72 years. The overall life expectancy for the age group 1-4 is 71.3 years.
- Why is it important to estimate Life Expectancy at Birth?
Life Expectancy at Birth is a critical indicator of overall population health. It provides an average estimate of the number of years a newborn is expected to live, helping assess the quality of life and healthcare outcomes in a population.
- What insights can be gained from the provided life expectancy data for policymakers and public health professionals?
The data on life expectancy in Pakistan offers valuable insights into the health and mortality conditions. Policymakers and public health professionals can use this information for informed decision-making, addressing health disparities, and implementing targeted interventions to improve overall health outcomes.
LIFE TABLE
- What is a life table in demography?
A life table is a statistical tool used in demography to analyze and project the mortality and survival patterns of a population. It provides a summary of age-specific death rates and life expectancies for a hypothetical cohort born at the same time.
- Why is a hypothetical population of 100,000 used in life tables?
Using a hypothetical population of 100,000 allows for standardization and easy comparison between different populations. It provides a common baseline for analyzing mortality patterns and calculating rates.
- What are age-specific death rates in a life table?
Age-specific death rates represent the number of deaths occurring in specific age groups within a population. They are applied to the hypothetical cohort to simulate the mortality experience of that population over time.
- What is the purpose of abridged life tables, and why are separate tables calculated for males and females?
A bridged life tables provide a condensed overview of mortality patterns. Separate tables for males and females are constructed due to differences in mortality rates between the sexes. Abridged tables often focus on broader age groups for simplicity.
- How is life expectancy calculated in a life table?
Life expectancy is calculated by summing the number of person-years lived in each age group and dividing it by the number of survivors at the beginning of the age interval. It provides an average estimate of the number of years a person can expect to live.
- What insights do life tables provide for policymakers and researchers?
Life tables offer valuable insights into population dynamics, mortality patterns, and life expectancy. They inform decisions related to public health, social security, and other policy areas by providing a clear understanding of a population’s demographic structure and changes over time.
- Why is it important to study the mortality experience of a population using life tables?
Studying the mortality experience helps policymakers and researchers understand how populations change over time due to death. This knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions about healthcare, social programs, and other aspects related to population well-being.
- What is the observed pattern of life expectancy in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, the pattern follows a universal trend where female life expectancy is higher than male life expectancy.
