本文以1970-2013年的中国人口统计数据为依据，论证BP网络预测模型的可行性同时给出了利用MATLAB神经网络工具箱设计BP网络的方法和步骤。利用样本数据对网络进行训练，并根据训练后的网络对未来人口数量作出预测。仿真结果表明该方法实际可行并对2014—2017的全国人口数量进行预测。。(Based on the statistics of Chinese population for 1970-2013 years, this paper demonstrates the feasibility of BP network prediction model, and gives the method and steps of using MATLAB neural network toolbox to design BP network. The network is trained using sample data, and predictions of future population size are based on the trained network. Simulation results show that the method is feasible and predicts the population size of 2014 - 2017..)