Gender: Improving literacy for women in developing countries has been a proven factor in lowering fertility and improving reproductive health. Improving the status of women at home, in the workplace, and in social and political life (as well as involving women and men equally in their reproductive decisions) also foreshadows improved health outcomes as well as overall economic growth. The gap between current realities and progress yet to be made is arguably larger here than in any other of PRB’s (Population Reference Bureau.) theme areas. The changes required are legal, economic, and cultural, but the resulting benefits cut broadly across most of our theme areas.