Manual for teachers for the implementation of the essential health care program in schools

Education and health go hand in hand. Children need to be healthy to be fit for school. Sadly, too many children in the Philippines are afflicted by everyday ailments that impact largely on their physical and mental development and limit them from getting the most from their education. The majority of Filipino children very often suffers from worm infections, severe tooth decay and from infectious diseases. Toothaches have a huge impact on the quality of life of children and on their ability to learn. Diarrhea, stomachaches, and itchy skin infections also contribute to poor participation and school absenteeism. Even the best education system cannot guarantee high academic performance when students are frequently ill or in pain. [authors abstract]