We believe that Gerry Parmantier’s Jan. 10 letter, “Rally against abortion,” regarding Planned Parenthood’s abortion rate, deserves further perspective. Yes, Planned Parenthood agrees that one abortion occurs every 90-plus seconds 24 hours/365 days and appears a “horrific” rate. However, the remaining health care providers (over 800) of abortion in the U.S. administer an abortion every 35 seconds 24 hours/365 days, which is over twice as many as Planned Parenthood. These statistics are according to the Centers for Disease Control.
Every year, Planned Parenthood prevents about 584,000 pregnancies through its counseling services. It receives no federal money for abortions and also provides prenatal care and information/counseling for adoption for all women who are pregnant. Over 75 percent of Planned Parenthood clients are considered under the poverty level and receive a fabulous gift of counseling and prenatal care.
Speaking out against abortion for others is a freedom of speech option for everyone and might help, along with Planned Parenthood, to reduce the number of abortions in the United States.
Kay and Jim Postma
Vancouver