Twin births increased in Québec between 1980 and 2010

Québec, June 5, 2012 – There has been a marked increase in the birth of twins in Québec over the past 30 years. In 1980, twins accounted for almost 2% of all births, whereas that share rose to over 3% in 2010. At the start of the period studied, one in every 54 babies was a twin; and in 2010 one in every 33 births. That increase was observed in all age groups but especially in mothers aged between 35 and 44. The main reasons put forward to explain the rise in multiple births were the increase in age of mothers giving birth as well as the augmented use of assisted human reproduction techniques. This was revealed in the first of the three articles published today by the Institut de la statistique du Québec in the Données sociodémographiques en bref newsletter.

The practice of literacy in the workplace and continuing education more or less frequent depending on employment

The links between literacy skills and educational attainment are well known but but those between literacy skills and the practice of literacy in the workplace or continuing education are less well known. But, according to the International Adult Literacy and Skills Survey (IALSS), 2003, workplace literacy practices, and structured training and informal learning are positively associated with literacy skills.

However, the Québec results of the IALSS show that not everybody has the opportunity to keep up or develop their skills. People working in some industries or in certain occupations have less opportunity to participate in continuing educational courses or to practice their literacy skills.

Having a job and not living alone make possible a faster escape from an episode of low income

During the 2002-2007 period, exiting from an episode of low income was faster when the income of the family unit was mainly from one job other things being equal. Living in a family enables a faster escape from an episode of low income compared with living alone. Even once socioeconomic characteristics were taken into account, income and household composition in particular, the following factors were also positively associated with the speed of exit: the primary household maintainer being a male, living in the country, and being born in Canada.

The Institut de la statistique du Québec produces, analyses and disseminates official, objective and quality statistical information on various aspects of Québec society. It is the statistical coordinator for Québec and the relevance of its work makes it a strategic ally for decision makers and all those wishing to learn more about Québec.

Sources:

• Chantal Girard
  Demographer
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• Francine Bernèche
  Socioeconomic Research Officer
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• Stéphane Crespo
  Socioeconomic Research Officer
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• Sylvain Carrier
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