Ailments Preventing Mongolian Youth Joining the Military Treated

Up to 30 percent of Mongolian youths who didn't pass military health checks were able to be treated. The following interview is with colonel B.Gotovdorj about the youths and treatment.

Q: What kind of illnesses prevented young people from being admitted to the military?

A: Over 6000 young men were involved in the medical examination in one district per year and about 2000 of them are sick. Around 23 percent have poor sight, 24 percent have injuries from surgery related mishaps and other general injuries and 12 percent are underweight.

Q: How are you working towards improving hygiene?

A: We deliver the names and diagnosis to their household hospital and invite youths to an unofficial seminar on tow to improve basic things like hygiene. Results include 30 Percent who didn't pass military health tests have been treated with marked health improvements.

Q: What is the main reason for not passing these tests?

A: The main reason is tattooing and leaving scars and damage from the removal of tattoos. Another major reason is people with bad eyesight cannot enlist. This regulation must be changed; if there is a war, everyone should be allowed to go.