Abstract
Background. Population growth is a critical and strategic concern for nations, directly impacting economic prosperity, societal advancement, national security, and the preservation of cultural values, especially within an Islamic context. However, this issue faces challenges such as declining fertility rates. Therefore, it is essential to develop solutions that promote population growth while addressing the needs and aspirations of individuals. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of the staff at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, recognizing them as dedicated professionals and caretakers of community health whose insights may help in shaping meaningful strategies that resonate with the local culture, needs, and realities.
Methods. This qualitative study, applying content analysis methodology, was conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. Purposive sampling was used to select participants, and interviews continued until information saturation was reached. In total, 30 interviews were conducted. The data were analyzed using content analysis.
Results. Content analysis identified several key themes: economic improvement for families, enhancing social awareness, maternal support (pregnancy and lactation), infant support, healthcare service improvements, and access to infertility treatment services. Solutions were proposed within each theme to increase the desire for fertility.
Conclusion. The results indicate that population growth requires a multidimensional approach encompassing economic, cultural, and health policies. Implementing these strategies can reduce financial and social barriers, thereby increasing the willingness to have children. This study recommends that policymakers prioritize long-term planning and inter-institutional coordination to achieve optimal outcomes..
Extended Abstract
Background
Over the past fifty years, significant changes have been observed in the world’s population structure due to a decrease in fertility rates, followed by a decline in population growth rates. Scientific knowledge of the mechanisms affecting fertility is crucial for increasing fertility rates and promoting population growth. Various economic, social, cultural, and political factors influence population-related issues, making them complex. Economically, a decrease in income can lead to delayed marriage and, consequently, a decline in fertility rates. Additionally, families consider their social status when making decisions about childbirth. Therefore, to accomplish the objectives of the healthcare system and the nation, this study aims to explore the perspectives of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences staff on population growth strategies. This study investigates the viewpoints of staff members at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences regarding effective strategies to address population growth. By capturing their insights and experiences, the research aims to identify practical and culturally appropriate approaches that can inform policy-making and public health initiatives. Understanding these perspectives is crucial for designing sustainable interventions that balance demographic changes with healthcare resources and societal needs.
Methods
This qualitative study was conducted at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in 2023. We utilized a content analysis approach to explore the challenges of population increase and potential solutions from the perspective of medical sciences staff.
Participant Selection
Participants were selected using purposive sampling to ensure diverse experiences and perspectives on the subject matter.
Data Collection
Semi-structured face-to-face interviews were conducted in Persian to allow participants to freely express their opinions and experiences. The interview questions were semi-open-ended to facilitate a comprehensive exploration of the subject matter.
Data Analysis
In this study, an interview guide was prepared with three descriptive questions regarding population growth strategies. Content analysis was used for data analysis. Ethical considerations were also a priority in this study, and after obtaining approval from the ethics committee with the code of ethics IR.TBZMED.REC.1402.066, data collection commenced.
Results
After content analysis, it was identified that economic improvement for families, enhancing social awareness, maternal Support (pregnancy and lactation), infant support, healthcare service improvements, and access to infertility treatment services were key factors. Solutions were presented within each main theme to increase the desire for fertility (Table 1).
Conclusion
The present study offers a comprehensive examination of the perspectives of staff at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, proposing actionable strategies to address factors influencing fertility rate enhancement. The findings indicate that resolving the challenge of population decline requires a systematic and coordinated approach, integrating innovative economic policies with targeted cultural programs while strengthening supportive and healthcare infrastructures. The experiences and suggestions of participants, primarily health sector specialists, highlight the necessity of cross-sectoral collaboration among economic, educational, healthcare, and media institutions. This study demonstrates that the effective implementation of these strategies demands national commitment and adequate resource allocation to achieve desirable long-term changes in population fertility.
Practical Implications of Research
The findings of this study indicate that increasing fertility rates and population growth require the implementation of multidimensional policies in economic, social, cultural, and healthcare domains. Practical strategies include providing direct financial support to families, reducing the costs of infertility treatments, improving working conditions for mothers through extended maternity leave and remote work options, and enhancing healthcare services such as free natural childbirth. These measures can reduce financial and social barriers, thereby increasing the willingness to have children and helping policymakers design more effective programs.
Additionally, raising social awareness through targeted educational programs in schools and universities, media campaigns, and the promotion of family values can shift societal attitudes toward childbearing. Close coordination among institutions such as the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Welfare, and cultural organizations is essential for the simultaneous implementation of these policies. This study underscores the importance of long-term planning and the active involvement of medical professionals in designing and executing strategies to achieve population growth objectives.