This is the 53rd edition of this publication which contains comparable national demographic data for over 230 countries or areas throughout the world. The yearbook gives general tables with a world summary of selected demographic statistics; data tables for regions and countries on the size, distribution and trends in population, natality, foetal mortality, infant and maternal mortality, general mortality, nuptiality and divorce; technical notes; a curnulative index and a listing of previous yearbooks published to date.