(a) Highlight any five factors that have accounted for the world's rapid population growth, (b) Outline any five problems of rapid population growth.

Answer Details

(a) Factors accounting for the world's rapid population growth:

1. Fall in death rate: Improved medicine, immunisation, better nutrition and sanitation have greatly reduced deaths, especially infant mortality, so more people survive.
2. High birth rate: Early marriage, large-family preference and low use of family planning in many countries keep births high.
3. Advances in medical science: Control of epidemic diseases and better health care have lengthened life expectancy.
4. Improved food supply: Better farming methods and food distribution reduce famine and starvation.
5. Peace and stability with improved living conditions: Fewer major wars, along with better water supply and housing, allow populations to grow steadily.

(b) Problems of rapid population growth:

1. Food shortage: Food production may not match the growing population, causing hunger and malnutrition.
2. Unemployment: Jobs increase more slowly than the labour force, leaving many people unemployed.
3. Pressure on social services: Housing, schools, hospitals, water and power become overstretched.
4. Overcrowding and slums: Cities become congested, with slums, poor sanitation and rising crime.
5. Environmental degradation: Overuse of land, deforestation and pollution damage the environment and resources.