What does the crude birth rate (CBR) measure?

The crude birth rate (CBR) specifically measures the number of live births occurring during a year per 1,000 people in the population. This statistic provides insight into the population growth dynamics of a region, helping to understand demographic trends. It is a critical indicator used in demographic studies and planning because it directly reflects the birth activity, irrespective of the age structure of the population, which can be important for assessing public health, resource needs, and economic development. Understanding the CBR is essential for analyzing how populations grow and change over time.