Refocusing China's Family Planning Commission in the 21st Century

摘要

China's entry into an aging society calls for a transition of its population policy. The State Family Planning Commission (SFPC) could concentrate more on many essential health and human services for the next few decades. Prevention of birth defects and reduction of unnecessary cesarean births are cost-effective interventions that would enhance the health of the upcoming generations. Research and evaluation of modern contraceptive technologies are needed to promote reproductive health and help both the SFPC and users make well-informed decisions. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) testing and counseling deserve the joint efforts of the government, health services, and the society at large. Further, the SFPC's collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture and the National Women's Federation can help to reinforce its role in the treatment of infertility and maternal diseases, the provision of public services for low-income families, and the prevention of domestic violence. The SFPC can also play a role in China's increasing foreign aid, particularly in those countries where artificial contraception and HIV/STD prevention are needed.