All issues > Volume 53(3); 2010

Original Article

Korean J Pediatr. 2010;53(3):300-306. Published online March 15, 2010.

The current child and adolescent health screening system: an assessment and proposal for an early and periodic check-up program

Baik-Lin BL Eun¹, Jin Soo JS Moon², So-Hee SH Eun¹, Hea Kyoung HK Lee³, Son Moon SM Shin⁴, In Kyung IK Sung⁵, Hee Jung HJ Chung⁶

¹Department of Pediatrics, Korea University College of Medicine
²Department of Pediatrics, Inje University Ilsan Paik Hospital
³Department of Pediatrics, Seoul Veterans Hospital
⁴Department of Pediatrics, Kwandong University College of Medicine
⁵Department of Pediatrics, Catholic University College of Medicine
⁶Department of Pediatrics, National Health Insurance Corporation, Ilsan Hospital

Correspondence Hee Jung HJ Chung ,Email: agathac@nhimc.or.kr

Received: February 18, 2010; Revised: February 25, 2010   Accepted: March 2, 2010.

Abstract

Purpose
: Recent changes in the population structure of Korea, such as rapid decline in birth rate and exponential increase in old-aged people, prompted us to prepare a new health improvement program in children and adolescents.
Methods
: We reviewed current health screenings applied for children and adolescents in Korea and other developed countries. We collected and reviewed population-based data focused on mortality and morbidity, and other health-related statistical data. We generated problem lists in current systems and developed new principles.
Results
: Current health screening programs for children and adolescents were usually based on laboratory tests, such as blood tests, urinalysis, and radiologic tests. Almost all of these programs lacked evidence based on population data or controlled studies. In most developed countries, laboratory tests are used only very selectively, and they usually focus on primary prevention of diseases and health improvement using anticipatory guidance. In Korea, statistics on mortality and morbidity reveal that diseases related to lifestyle, such as obesity and metabolic syndrome, are increasing in all generations.
Conclusion
: We recommend a periodic health screening program with anticipatory guidance, which is focused on growth and developmental surveillance in infants and children. We no longer recommend old programs that are based on laboratory and radiologic examinations. School health screening programs should also be changed to meet current health issues, such as developing a healthier lifestyle to minimize risk behaviors—for example, good mental health, balanced nutrition, and more exercise.

Keywords :Health screening system, Developmental surveillance, Infant, Child, Adolescent, Korea