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[A retrospective study of the health status, nutritional status and growth of interracially adopted children]
Insights
This study on adopted children from developing countries found high rates of gastro-intestinal, respiratory, and skin issues. Many children arrived malnourished, highlighting the need for thorough medical evaluations.
Area of Science:
- Global Health
- Pediatrics
- Public Health
Background:
- Children adopted from developing countries often present with unique health challenges.
- Assessing the health status and nutritional state of these children is crucial for their well-being.
- Understanding the prevalence of diseases and nutritional deficiencies informs targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the health status of children adopted from developing countries.
- To identify common medical conditions and nutritional deficiencies in this population.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of catch-up growth and suggest improvements in medical examinations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective study utilizing parental questionnaires.
- Involved 228 adopted children from developing countries.
- Analyzed diagnoses of gastro-intestinal, upper respiratory, and dermatologic conditions, alongside nutritional status.
Main Results:
- High prevalence of diagnosed conditions: approximately 100 gastro-intestinal, 80 upper respiratory, and 50 dermatologic issues.
- 30-40% of children arrived malnourished.
- Catch-up growth was observed after at least six months in the Netherlands.
Conclusions:
- Adopted children from developing countries frequently experience significant health problems and malnutrition.
- Post-adoption nutritional rehabilitation is essential for growth.
- Recommendations are made for comprehensive medical examinations for all internationally adopted children.
Abstract:
The results are described of a retrospective study, per questionnaire among parents who adopted children from developing countries. Results are given of 228 children. Approximately 100 gastro-intestinal, 80 upper respiratory (nose-, ear- and throat-)diseases and 50 dermatologic problems were diagnosed. We further studied the state of nutrition and the medical information which the parents received from the country of origin. 30-40% of the children arrived malnourished and the catch-up growth was determined after a stay of at least 6 months in the Netherlands. Suggestions are made for a general medical examination of adopted children from the developing countries.