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Published on: September 19, 2019

Factors associated with chronic conditions among children in foster care

Sandra H Jee1, Richard P Barth, Moira A Szilagyi

  • 1Division of General Pediatrics and Strong Children Research Center, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, USA. Sandra_Jee@urmc.rochester.edu

Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved
|May 17, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Children in foster care have a high prevalence of chronic conditions. Younger children, non-Hispanic caregivers, and smaller households were associated with increased chronic conditions in this population.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Child Welfare
  • Public Health

Background:

  • The prevalence of chronic conditions in children in foster care ranges from 44%-82% based on previous studies.
  • The foster care population is experiencing rapid growth, necessitating further research into associated health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify factors associated with chronic conditions in a nationally representative sample of children in foster care.
  • To analyze data from the National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW) for insights into child welfare and health.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of data from The National Survey of Child and Adolescent Well-Being (NSCAW), Wave 1.
  • Utilized regression analysis to determine significant factors associated with chronic conditions.

Main Results:

  • Child age under 2 years was significantly associated with having a chronic condition.
  • Caregiver race/ethnicity other than Hispanic was linked to a higher prevalence of chronic conditions.
  • Fewer household members were also a significant factor associated with chronic conditions.

Conclusions:

  • Identified key demographic and household factors associated with chronic conditions in children in foster care.
  • Highlights the need for targeted interventions and support for this vulnerable population.
  • Emphasizes the importance of considering chronic conditions within the context of child welfare services.

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