THE REAL DEMOGRAPHIC PROBLEM IS THE SIGNIFICANT AND PREVENTABLE MORTALITY

Abstract

Demographic public policy in Bulgaria usually concentrates on measures to affect births and family support. However, data show that mortality is much higher than the EU average and especially problematic is the treatable and preventable mortality. Premature deaths in Bulgaria are also high leading to low life expectancy. Consequently, it is not the promotion of fertility that is needed to relieve the demographic pressure, but a policy to limit the excessive preventable mortality in Bulgaria. Effective measures related to improving the health of the population are needed which usually involves also reforms in the healthcare.