Population Growth and Composition. Structure by Age and Human Development

The most notable result of Mexico's 12th General Census of Population & Housing was the change in the age structure in the last decade, with the population of children below age 15 proportionately decreasing & the older populations increasing. The Mexican index of human development, which takes into consideration mortality, fertility, & education, has advanced significantly from 0.22 in 1900 to 0.80 in 2000. However, there are still large sections of the population without health services, proper housing, & necessities. Inequalities in these measures exist across regions. Issues of freedoms, human rights, & the development of personal abilities, under conditions of unequal opportunities, are discussed. 1 Table. M. Pflum