Nauka o zdravlju za srednja učilišta

Health Science for Secondary Schoolsby Dr. Radovan pl. Marković is one of the most significant health-educational works published in our region at the beginning of the 20th century. The book was written at a time when the modern public health system was just taking shape, and hygiene was becoming a key part of young people's education. As a physician, hygienist and author of several manuals, Marković was among the first to promote the idea that scientifically based health knowledge must be made available to the general public.

The book systematically presents the structure and functioning of the human body and explains basic physiological principles: breathing, digestion, blood circulation, the functioning of the nervous system and the role of the senses. The second part emphasizes personal, family and public hygiene, topics such as nutrition, sleep, physical exercise, clothing, the importance of cleanliness, ventilation and being in the fresh air. The fight against infectious diseases, then one of the greatest threats to the health of the population, is particularly elaborated.

The writing style is adapted to high school age: clear, accessible and focused on practical understanding. Marković often emphasizes the connection between health and moral habits, work habits and social responsibility, which reflects the spirit of the times and the beginnings of institutional health education.

Dr. Radovan pl. Marković, born in 1874, was a physician with a broad education and one of the most important popularizers of medicine in Croatia. He was also the commissioner for health in the first years of the State of SHS, but he died prematurely in 1920, leaving behind several valuable hygiene and health manuals intended for the people and schools.

As a textbook and as a historical document, Health Science for Secondary Schools represents a valuable testimony to the development of health education and early medical pedagogy in our areas.