May 20, 2020 - Health

Coronavirus pandemic could prolong U.S. baby bust

Two people wearing face masks pushing strollers in New York City.

Two people wearing face masks pushing strollers in New York City. Photo: John Lamparski/Getty Images

U.S. births continued to fall last year, leading to the fewest newborns in 35 years, as the CDC said births fell roughly 1% from 2018, to about 3.7 million, the AP reports.

Why it matters: The decline continues a prolonged national "baby bust" that's been going on for more than a decade. Some experts believe the coronavirus pandemic will suppress the numbers further because of anxiety about the future.

Go deeper: The birth rate in every country — past, present and future

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