The world's population reach seven billion on Oct 31, 2011, according to projections by the United Nations, which says this global milestone presents both an opportunity and a challenge for the planet.

Filipina mother Camille holds her newborn baby girl named Danica Camacho, in Fabella Maternity hospital, Manila, on Oct 31, 2011. At right is Danica's father Florante. The baby girl is the Philippines' symbolic "seven billionth baby," who is part of the UN's seven billion global population project. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) staff gives a cake to the family of newborn baby girl. [Photo/Agencies]

While more people are living longer and healthier lives, says the UN, gaps between rich and poor are widening and more people than ever are vulnerable to food insecurity and water shortages.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will hold a news conference Monday to mark the date and talk about challenges ahead, particularly how to reduce poverty, invest in the world's 1.8 billion youth and help countries develop in a sustainable way

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