CHINA wants to increase the average life expectancy of its citizens to 77.3 by 2020 and 79 by 2030, up from last year’s 76.34, according to a health development plan for the next 15 years.

    The “Healthy China 2030” blueprint, released Tuesday, includes 29 chapters that cover areas such as public health services, environment management and food and drug safety.

    The blueprint noted that industrialization, urbanization, an aging population, as well as environmental and lifestyle changes had created new health challenges, and nationwide strategies are needed to solve “major and long-term health-related issues.”

    The document said that health education will be incorporated into the education system, and a national nutrition plan should be implemented, with efforts to research food nutrition and monitor residents’ nutrition status.

    The number of people “frequently participating in physical exercise” should increase to 530 million by 2030 from 360 million in 2014, and the smoking rate of those aged 15 or above should be lowered to 20 percent.

    “Health is not just about curing illness. Prevention is the key,” said Liu Yuanli, head of the public health school under the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

    “With a focus on healthy lifestyles, the document places emphasis on health knowledge and skills, and encouraging good habits. This is the best approach,” Liu said.

    The document suggests the infant mortality rate should be lowered to five out of every 1,000 live births by 2030, down from the current eight. Mortality rates for children under 5 and pregnant women should also decrease notably.

    China aims to have three certified or assistant doctors, and 4.7 registered nurses, for every 1,000 residents by 2030.

    In rural areas, in particular, greater efforts will be made to improve garbage disposal and treatment of sewage, as well as expanding the use of clean energy and access to safe drinking water.

    (Xinhua)