Bogor students have dental problems

BOGOR: Most junior high and high school students in Bogor suffer from a variety of dental problems while many others have trouble with their eyesight.

In a recent health examination of 3,937 students enrolled in 12 junior high schools and high schools, the Bogor Health Agency found that 2,339 students had dental problems while 497 had trouble with their eyesight.

The head of the children's service division of the health agency, Dr. Ratna Yunita, said dental problems were common among the urban youth.

"Dental problems are common as many youths often consume a lot of candy, but neglect to brush or floss their teeth after meals," said Ratna.

Commenting on the eyesight problem, Ratna said that it might be related to the students' habit of sitting in front of a computer screen for long periods of time.

Ratna said the health screening would be conducted throughout all schools in Bogor.

There are more than 80 junior high schools and high schools in Bogor. --JP