Health Screening Basics
Texas public, private, and charter schools are required to screen children at specific grade or age levels for certain conditions. These screenings include:
Fitness Testing
The Texas Legislature requires that School Districts assess the physical fitness of students in grades 3- 12. Students will be tested in the following categories:
- Body composition
- Aerobic capacity
- Abdominal strength and endurance
- Upper body strength and endurance
- Flexibility
A physical fitness report card will be provided at the end of the school year for the students that complete the test.
Vision and Hearing
Spinal Deformities
The Texas State Legislature passed a law in 1985 that requires all sixth and ninth grade students (or grades 5 and 8) to be screened for spinal deformities. Early detection of abnormal spinal curvature can prevent serious health problems. This is a problem that may begin during the early adolescent years (from 10 – 14 years of age), with an estimated 1 in 10 adolescents having some degree of abnormal curvature. Curves that are detected early may only require periodic observation by a specialist. Moderate curves may require the wearing of a brace, which is usually supervised by an orthopedic specialist. In most cases, the need for major surgery for this deformity can be eliminated through early detection.
Children will be screened for two types of spinal deformities: scoliosis and kyphosis. Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine is twisted, causing misalignment of the upper body or lower back. This condition can worsen and lead to much pain, as well as complications of the heart and lungs. Kyphosis is an exaggerated rounding of the spine. Progression of these two conditions can often be arrested if detected early.
Acanthosis Nigricans