Early detection and treatment of mental and physical disabilities: from the standpoints of maternal and child health care.

Japanese maternal and child health policies and measures have implemental health examinations, health guidances, health educations and medical aids program and so on which aim at the following items: 1) Protection and promotion of pregnant women's and infants' health, i.e. the reduction of mortalities; 2) Prevention of the occurrence of mental and physical disabilities; and 3) Sound development of children. In this paper, our administrative structure, the mass screening program for congenital metabolic abnormalities followed by the medical aids program were mentioned. These activities have been carried out in order to detect mental and physical disabilities in their early stage and to prevent to occurrence and further aggravations of the disabilities through providing good medical care services. First of all, our MCH activities are characterized by smooth relationship and close unity of central government, local governments and voluntary bodies. Concerning the congenital metabolic abnormalities, the screening program was started in 1977. Since then 266 patients were found under this program and along with the medical aids program the screening program has proved effective of the early treatments. Finally, it was briefly stated that establishment of a monitoring system of congenital defects, including establishment of a monitoring center, is seriously considering as an important future project of our MCH policies.