New York, NY (WIBX) - A new report by the Centers for Disease Control just out today, shows a more than 40-percent decline in teen birth rates all across the country. And, New York State has the 9th lowest teen birth rate on the record. Bill Albert, Chief Program Officer at the National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy, says it's the greatest decline recorded so far.

"We have seen the rates of teen pregnancy, and as of this report notes, teen birth decline by more than 40-percent. We've seen declines in all 50 states and we've seen impressive declines among all racial ethnic groups. It's truly an extraordinary success story on a problem anyone considered intractable," he said. Albert says the declines are due to teens having less sex, and using more contraception.

He also notes that parents play a crucial role in keeping teen pregnancy numbers down. "It may be a surprise to many adults, but teens tell us year, after year, after year that it's parents that most influence their decisions about sex--not peers, not popular culture, not even their partner. So, it's important for parents to understand the critical role that they have to play in helping their teenage sons and daughters make good decisions about relationships and sex, and contraception," he said.

The 2010 report, which show the most recent data on teen pregnancy, indicate that 16 states have had declines and African Americans saw the greatest decline in teen pregnancy rates. Despite the positive news, Albert says teen pregnancy remains high in southern states. You can find the full report right below.

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