New faces from faraway places: Immigrant child health in Canada

Abstract

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.