Expanded health screenings in schools to improve student well-being
In all primary schools in the country, free dental, eye, and ENT check-ups have been offered for several years. This year, screening for scoliosis will also begin for school children aged 6 to 14.
Why is this important
In recent years, orthopedic doctors have raised the alarm about the increasing number of children affected by spinal deformities. The reasons are linked to prolonged use of mobile phones and the heavy weight of school bags.
Context
To prevent the worsening of scoliosis in this age group, the Ministry of Health has launched a program as part of the national “Health in Schools” initiative. More than 200 physical education teachers will be trained to identify students who show visible signs of scoliosis and to recommend specialized check-ups with orthopedic doctors. All new schools built in the last 10 years have dental offices as well as offices for eye doctors and ENT specialists.
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