TOKYO -- Total births in Japan fell 4.7% in the year through March to just over 850,000, according to new data published Tuesday by the health ministry, as uncertainty over the coronavirus accelerates the country's demographic crunch.
Coronavirus
Japan births fall 4.7% on COVID baby bust
Country on pace for fewest newborns in 120 years, projections show
Health concerns and hospital restrictions from the coronavirus have led many prospective parents to delay having children. (Photo by Wataru Ito)
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