China to enhance disability prevention

China has unveiled a national action plan to reduce and control the occurrence and development of disabilities through enhanced prevention efforts from 2021 to 2025, according to a circular released by the General Office of the State Council on Jan 5.

By 2025, the plan aims to improve the disability prevention policy system covering all sectors in economic and social development and the service network serving all people throughout their life, the circular said.

By then, it said, China will also strive toward the front rank of middle- and high-income countries in major disability prevention indicators, such as the rate of prenatal screening, vaccination rates for eligible children under China's national immunization plan, and coverage of basic rehabilitation services for the disabled.

The five-year plan outlines actions to educate children, pregnant women, the elderly and other key groups about disability prevention.

To prevent and control disabilities caused by birth defects and developmental disorders, efforts should be made to promote pre-pregnancy care, prenatal screening and diagnosis, as well as early checkups and intervention for children.

Other efforts involve strengthening prevention and control of disabilities arising from chronic, infectious and endemic diseases, coupled with improved mental health services.

The plan stresses ensuring fire safety, safety in production, road traffic and transportation, agricultural products, food, drugs and drinking water, and addressing air and noise pollution to avoid harm.

It also requires better rehabilitation services, including delivering basic rehabilitation services to people with disabilities, improving long-term nursing services, and boosting barrier-free facilities.