JAMAICA'S population has increased by less than one per cent per annum since 1991, while life expectancy has increased -- with women negligibly more than men -- the 2011 Population and Housing Census has shown.

The survey also found that there has been a decline in the 0-14 age group, while the working age population increased in comparative since 2001.

The major findings of the census will be presented by the Statistical Institute of Jamaica (STATIN) at a press conference in Kingston on Wednesday this week.

STATIN also said that information relating to housing stock also shows an increase.

All countries are required by the United Nations to undertake a census at least once every 10 years. The just completed exercise was Jamaica's 14th.

The Population and Housing Census is the total process of collecting, compiling and publishing demographic, social and economic data pertaining to a specified time, to all persons in the country. As stated in the Principles and Recommendations of the United Nations, "the most important capital a society can have is human capital".

The census data are used primarily for planning, policy-making and administration. From a government perspective, the data inform response to the demand for social amenities such as schools, health facilities and water supply.

Private sector firms also use them for market decisions, such as where to locate business entities that target specific population groups and where and how to provide the services that satisfy the needs of the population.

According to STATIN, the data collection process for the 2011 Census was most challenging. However, there was a heightened sense of awareness with the theme 'Everyone counts... you, me, all a wi'.