Chronic Illnesses and Student Academic Performance

Authors

  • Therdpong Thongseiratch Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkha 90110
  • Nutthaporn Chandeying Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine Vajira Hospital, Navamindradhiraj University, Dusit, Bangkok 10300,

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31584/jhsmr.2020738

Keywords:

academic performance, chronic illness, identification, intervention

Abstract

Innovations in healthcare have improved survival in children with illnesses previously considered fatal. Chronic illnesses in school-age children are increasing significantly, and these children are at higher risk for school problems than their healthy peers. To review the state of research on the impact of chronic illnesses on student academic performance, we reviewed original studies that investigated the relationship of child development, cognitive abilities, and academic achievement with common chronic illnesses. Research reveals evidence that chronic illnesses have both direct (educational impacts) and indirect (social and psychological impacts) impacts on education. Specifically, epilepsy, asthma, diabetes mellitus, cancer, congenital heart diseases, and Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection affect student achievement and some specific areas of cognitive ability. Success at school for the chronically ill student requires the coordinated efforts of educators, parents, students, and medical professionals. This review also proposes ways to assess and assist children with chronic illnesses in different educational settings. Hospital schooling, homebound instruction, and school-based interventions are examined. The critical aspects of each educational service are discussed with recommendations for educators and healthcare practitioners.

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Published

2020-05-01

How to Cite

1.
Thongseiratch T, Chandeying N. Chronic Illnesses and Student Academic Performance. J Health Sci Med Res [Internet]. 2020 May 1 [cited 2024 Nov. 23];38(3):245-53. Available from: https://he01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jhsmr/article/view/244172

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Section

Review Article