Taiwan, R.O.C.: perspectives in school health

Continuous economic development and evolving social systems have created unique challenges for school health personnel in Taiwan. Due in part to economic growth and an improving health care system, average life expectancy has increased markedly for males and females since 1950. Traditional leading causes of death such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and gastroenteritis have been replaced by accidents, neoplasms, and cardiovascular diseases. Schoolchildren suffer from various disorders that include hepatitis B, dental caries, and health problems related to scholastic pressure such as myopia, anxiety, and depression. However, new problems such as violence, substance use, and teen-age pregnancy may develop in the future. In response to the challenge, an extensive school health program has emerged that emphasizes school health instruction, school health services, and a healthful school environment. Increased attention has focused on teacher preparation in health education, and a cooperative approach to school health promotion emphasizes school, community, and interagency cooperation. Prompted by the establishment in 1980 of the Graduate Institute of Health Education, National Taiwan Normal University, school-based research initiatives have increased dramatically. Eighteen recommendations for further improvement are offered.