The number of abortions in Arkansas dropped 6 percent in 2012, marking the lowest annual abortion rate since 1977.
The state reported a total of 3,782 abortions in 2012, down 6 percent from the 4,033 abortions in 2011, Life News reported.
The numbers show abortion in Arkansas has followed a definite pattern, rising during the 1970′s and 1980′s; peaking in the early to mid-1990′s; and declining from 1992 to 2012.
The abortion statistics from 1982 through 2012 are especially significant. From 1973 through 1981, the numbers only show part of the picture, as the Health Department only recorded abortions performed in Arkansas. The abortion numbers from 1982 through 2012 include abortions on Arkansas residents who crossed state lines to get an abortion.
Looking at those numbers specifically, a downward trend in abortion is visible.
Since the legalization of abortion in 1973, Arkansas has had an average of 5,644 abortions per year.
