Health program lowers smoking rate in pilot areas: commission

BEIJING -- About 21.69 percent of people age 15 or above smoke in a second group of pilot counties and districts for health promotion in China, lower than the national average, the National Health and Family Planning Commission said on Jan 24.

The health literacy rate -- an indicator of citizens' health knowledge, skills, and healthy lifestyles -- is 19.57 percent in these areas, higher than the national average of 11.58 percent, Song Shuli, spokesperson for the commission, said at a press conference.

China has set up pilot programs in 399 counties and districts since 2014, divided into three groups. In 2018, the commission will expand the program nationwide, Song said.

The pilot program promotes the construction of health venues, health education and spreading health knowledge, such as pre-natal classes and free physical check-ups for students.