This tool provides an estimate of the average number of daughters a hypothetical cohort of women would have in their lifetimes, assuming they experience the current age-specific fertility and mortality rates. This metric offers insight into the potential for a population to replace itself. A value of 1.0 indicates that, on average, each woman is replaced by one daughter. Values above 1.0 suggest a growing population, while values below 1.0 imply a declining population, absent migration.
The calculation of this rate is significant for demographic projections and policymaking. It informs decisions related to resource allocation, social security systems, and public health initiatives. Historically, analysis of these rates has been crucial in understanding population trends and anticipating future societal challenges related to aging populations or rapid population growth. It serves as a key indicator when evaluating the long-term sustainability of a population.