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. 2005 May;10(5):277-81.

New faces from faraway places: Immigrant child health in Canada

Maryanne Crockett  1
Affiliations

New faces from faraway places: Immigrant child health in Canada

Maryanne Crockett. Paediatr Child Health. 2005 May.

Abstract
in English, French

For the past several years, more than 50,000 children have immigrated to Canada annually. These children are particularly vulnerable in terms of their health. Although the Immigration Medical Examination provides the required medical screening, a number of additional recommendations for the medical evaluation of immigrant children can optimize their health care as they transition to life in Canada. Furthermore, a number of other issues must be specifically addressed in the care of immigrant children, such as consideration of their culture, nutritional issues and growth, psychosocial issues and immunizations. Certain groups of immigrant children, such as internationally adopted children and refugees, may be even more vulnerable and have special needs. However, despite the numerous challenges in addressing the health issues of immigrant children, there are many resources available to help paediatricians provide these children with optimal care.

Depuis quelques années, plus de 50 000 enfants immigrent au Canada chaque année. Ces enfants sont particulièrement vulnérables en matière de santé. Bien que l’examen médical réglementaire de l’immigration procure le dépistage médical exigé, plusieurs recommandations supplémentaires pour l’évaluation médicale des enfants immigrants peuvent optimiser leurs soins tandis qu’ils font la transition vers une vie au Canada. De plus, plusieurs enjeux doivent être abordés de manière spécifique dans les soins aux enfants immigrants, tels que la prise en compte de leur culture, des problèmes d’alimentation et de croissance, des troubles psychosociaux et de l’immunisation. Certains groupes d’enfants immigrants, comme les enfants adoptés sur la scène internationale et les réfugiés, peuvent être encore plus vulnérables et avoir des besoins spéciaux. Cependant, malgré les nombreux défis pour affronter les problèmes de santé des enfants immigrants, il existe de nombreuses ressources pour aider les pédiatres à prodiguer des soins optimaux à ces enfants.

Keywords: Child; Health; Immigrant.

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