Health screening among children newly granted asylum in Denmark

N W Frederiksen, N M Christoffersen, A K Haugaard, A Ahmadi, A Poulsen, M Norredam, A Kruse

2 Citationer (Scopus)

Abstract

AIM: To describe the findings and recommendations of the general health assessment (GHA) of newly resettled refugee children in Denmark.

METHODS: This cross-sectional study included children (aged <18 years) undergoing GHA from 2017 to 2019 at a university hospital Section of Immigrant Medicine. GHA was offered to all refugees newly resettled in the Municipality of Copenhagen. It comprised of a structured questionnaire, clinical examination, blood test and recommendations.

RESULTS: In the study period, 107 children were eligible, 100 children had a GHA performed and of whom all were included in the study. Trauma was reported in 61% (n = 61/100) of children. The median duration of the asylum-seeking process was 18 months (IQR: 8-24), and the highest number of relocations was nine. Latent tuberculosis (n = 2/100 [2%]) was the only infectious disease diagnosed. Specific recommendations for follow-up were frequent and included referral to specialist departments (n = 26/100 [26%]), suggestions for family doctor (n = 96/100 [96%]) and for municipality (n = 62/100 [62%]).

CONCLUSION: Self-reported trauma was frequent among 100 newly resettled refugee children. For most children, the asylum process was protracted and included several relocations. Specific follow-up recommendations were given to the vast majority. GHA may contribute to improving health, which could possibly support integration for the child and family.

OriginalsprogEngelsk
TidsskriftActa paediatrica
Vol/bind110
Udgave nummer8
Sider (fra-til)2389-2395
Antal sider7
ISSN1651-2227
DOI
StatusUdgivet - aug. 2021

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