The 22nd annual National Maternal and Child Health and Family Planning (MCH/FP) Congress symposium was held in Sendai City, Miyagi Prefecture, on 18th November. Its organizers included the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, Miyagi Prefecture, and the Japan Family Planning Association.

Over 1,000 local government officials, MCH/FP promoting NGOs and community-based volunteers from all over the country attended to renew commitment to promoting MCH/FP in Japan, and specifically to consider the issues of child abuse. JOICFP was a co-sponsor of the event.

After awards to health workers, a special lecture on the value of the culture of good food, its preparation, and proper eating habits was given by a famous television personality. She explained that a culture of good food aided in not only the physical and psychological development of children, but also contributed to social bonding.

This was followed by presentations of issues and activities on child abuse by a pediatrician, a member of an NGO that conducts research for policy recommendations, and a doctor in a city health center. The three presenters then took part in a panel discussion.

The panel discussion at the symposium

Child abuse is increasing in Japan, and is expected to continue rising until measures being put in place to counteract it take effect. It was recognized that in addition to strong action needing to be taken, verifiable indicators must be put in place. It is seen that volunteers are important in bridging the gap between government and women and children in preventing child abuse.

MCH Promoters meeting

On the evening of the 18th, the 4th National Meeting of MCH Promoters was held. This volunteer network is one of the most successful in Japan; the members are unpaid, it operates in many parts of the country, and it is often highlighted to visitors as a model of community-based RH service. Furthermore, being well placed in the community, the activities of the promoters are expanding as in some areas they are now including public health and the needs of the elderly.