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Race-specific patterns of abortion use by American teenagers
American Journal of Public Health
|August 1, 1982
Summary
Legal abortion availability increased teenage abortion rates nationwide between 1972-1978. Rates for Black and other races rose faster, reflecting higher sexual activity and pregnancy risk, though racial disparities narrowed over time.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Health
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Legal abortion access expanded nationally between 1972 and 1978.
- Teenage pregnancy and abortion are significant public health concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in abortion rates and ratios among American teenagers from 1972 to 1978.
- To examine race-specific differences in teenage abortion rates and outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of national abortion statistics.
- Comparison of abortion rates (per 1,000 women) and ratios (per 1,000 live births).
- Examination of race-specific data for White, and Black and other race teenagers.
Main Results:
- Abortion rates and ratios increased for all teenagers during the study period.
- Teenagers of Black and other races had higher abortion rates than White teenagers throughout the period.
- Race-specific differences in abortion ratios and other pregnancy outcomes narrowed between 1972 and 1975.
Conclusions:
- Increased legal abortion availability impacted teenage abortion trends nationwide.
- Higher rates among Black and other race teenagers were linked to higher sexual activity and pregnancy risk.
- While disparities persisted, a narrowing of race-specific differences in abortion and other pregnancy outcomes was observed.
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