A new report released by the US government shows the nation's teen pregnancy rate is at a 70 year low - and healthcare providers in southwest Georgia say the trend can be seen in our region, too.

The report, which looks at figures from 2009, says that for every 1,000 girls aged 15 to 19, 39 babies will be born.

Management for Georgia's Southwest District of Health Departments says the possibility of a brighter future for many teens has played a big role in the decline.

Says Deputy Southwest District Health Director Brenda Greene:

"The fact that we're focusing on teenagers and keeping them involved in other activities such as after-school programs, keeping them in school, career opportunities - more kids are having the opportunity to go to college - so I think they're focused on more things that are keeping them active."

Health Department staff also encourage teens to explore the resources they offer for family planning options. They say abstinence is the only sure way to not become pregnant.