公衆衛生活動の現状と課題

Abstract

At present, the values of health vary among people. The present public health activities can not cope with such diversified desires for health. In addition, with changes in the social situation such as aging society ・ society with fewer deliveries and children ・ greater participation of females in social affairs ・ increased nuclear families, enrichment of public health activities is necessary. For this, the conventional concept and orientation of public health activities should be changed. More elaborate intervention for individuals is necessary. Education of specialist staff engaged in such intervention should be re-evaluated. Systems and laws have been increasing in association with changes in the social situation, and time is necessary to fully implement them. The new systems include the care insurance system and care managers. Concerning public health laws, the time has come to reconsider infectious diseases designated by law because new infections have been discovered. Due to microorganisms showing multiple drug resistance, intractable tuberculosis has been increasing. Concerning problems arising in a society with fewer children and increased nuclear families, support of single mothers and children in the community is animportant task. There are various public health problems in Japan. In the future, a global point of view will be also required to perform public health activities comparable to those in various other countries.