Poverty’s causes

How is it possible that world leaders, philanthropists and the media can all evade discussing the main cause of poverty -- world overpopulation (“Building on hope,” editorial, Dec. 27). Until this reality is faced squarely, birth control made available to all women and modest-sized families encouraged, there is little hope for relief of the suffering despite all the rhetoric and dollars thrown at the problem.

SHIRLEY E. ROTH

Fountain Valley