Health in education for all: enabling school-age children and adults for healthy living.

Commentary is provided on the objectives of health for all as it is linked to education for all. Health education in developed and developing countries is necessary for 1) in-school youth 2) out-of-school youth and 3) adult literacy and education. After a general statement of what is involved in educating children for healthy living international health policy recommendations for strong national policy support of health education are presented. Examples of health learning experiences in school are given for the US Colombia Uganda Chile Bolivia Senegal Syria Swaziland and other countries. Opportunities that augment health education curriculum are a sanitary school environment maintenance of a school health service nutritious meals at school a positive social environment with congenial relationships and after-school sports and group activities. Links with the community are important for student training and transmission of knowledge and healthy practices to others. Specific attention must be paid to AIDS education nutrition education and water supply and sanitation. 8 challenges for action are identified. Health education for out-of-school children (105 million children 6-11 years in 1985) is equally important particularly since 70% are in developing countries and 60% are girls. The numbers are increasing in spite of UNESCOs efforts to mobilize nations to place health education on national agendas. Most out-of-school youth are served by private organizational efforts. Many of these children are destitute without families or from very poor landless families in rural areas. Brazils program for street youth and Bangladeshs program for functional literacy in short-term part-time learning help to fill the need. Underprivileged children also reside in urban areas and may not value or be able to afford school. The health sector needs to identify target groups and programs that are appropriate to childrens requirements. Information is needed on health hazards skills to avoid hazards and a supportive environment. 9 points for action are identified. Adult literacy programs are necessary for survival and improving the quality of life. Joint ventures with other development efforts are common. Womens functional literacy is a separate challenge. 5 actions are identified. A worldwide and multisectoral commitment is needed.