Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program: Two years of a system for investigating unusual paediatric disorders

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP) was established in 1996.
• It is a collaboration between the Canadian Paediatric Society (CPS) and the Laboratory Centre for Disease Control (LCDC).
• Oversight is provided by a steering committee with expertise in paediatrics, epidemiology, genetics, and public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To actively surveil rare and unusual paediatric conditions of public health importance in Canada.
• To collect timely data on the incidence of specific paediatric diseases.
• To facilitate research and collaboration on childhood health issues.

Main Methods:

• Monthly report cards were sent to all clinically active paediatricians in Canada.
• Paediatricians reported the number of new cases for selected conditions, including nil reports.
• Detailed case report forms were used for follow-up, with data analyzed by principal investigators.

Main Results:

• In its initial two years, the program reported on seven rare paediatric conditions.
• The system successfully gathered data on paediatric disease incidence through active reporting.
• The program demonstrated feasibility for ongoing surveillance of public health priorities.

Conclusions:

• The CPSP is an effective active surveillance system for rare paediatric conditions in Canada.
• The program's methodology allows for the monitoring of public health concerns in children.
• Future plans include international collaboration and expansion of surveillance capabilities.