Physical illnesses associated with childhood homelessness: a literature review
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REVIEW ARTICLE
Physical illnesses associated with childhood homelessness: a literature review Sabina Strashun 1
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& Saskia D’Sa & Deirdre Foley & Jessica Hannon & Anne-Marie Murphy & Clodagh S. O’Gorman
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Received: 1 February 2020 / Accepted: 9 April 2020 # Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland 2020
Abstract Background Childhood homelessness is a growing concern in Ireland [1] creating a paediatric subpopulation at increased risk of physical illnesses, many with life-long consequences [2]. Aim Our aim was to identify and categorize the physical morbidities prevalent in homeless children. Methods A review of the English-language literature on physical morbidities affecting homeless children (defined as ≤ 18 years of age) published from 1999 to 2019 was conducted. Results Respiratory issues were the most commonly cited illnesses affecting homeless children, including asthma, upper respiratory tract infections, and chronic cough [3]. Homeless children were described as being at increased risk for contracting infectious diseases, with many studies placing emphasis on the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV/AIDS transmission [4, 5]. Dermatologic concerns for this population comprised of scabies and head lice infestation, dermatitis, and abrasions [3, 6]. Malnutrition manifested as a range of physical morbidities, including childhood obesity [7], iron deficiency anemia [4], and stunted growth [8]. Studies demonstrated a higher prevalence of poor dental [7] and ocular health [9] in this population as well. Many articles also commented on the risk factors predisposing homeless children to these physical health concerns, which can broadly be categorized as limited access to health care, poor living conditions, and lack of education [3, 10]. Conclusion This literature review summarized the physical illnesses prevalent among homeless children and the contributing factors leading to them. Gaps in the literature were also identified and included a dearth of studies focusing on younger children compared with adolescents. Further research into prevention and intervention programs for this vulnerable population is urgently needed. Keywords Childhood homelessness . Homeless health . Homeless youth . Homelessness-associated illness . Physical illness
Introduction Homelessness is an increasing crisis internationally, and Ireland is no exception. According to Focus Ireland, child homelessness has increased by 400% in the last 5 years alone, with an estimated 3752 homeless children as of November 2019 [1]. * Sabina Strashun [email protected] Clodagh S. O’Gorman [email protected] 1
Graduate Entry Medical School (GEMS), University of Limerick, Limerick, Ireland
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Department of Paediatrics, University Hospital Limerick (UHL), Limerick, Ireland
The United Nations Children’s Fund broadly defined homeless children as any “girl or boy who has not reached adulthood, for whom the street, in the widest sense of the word, has become his or her habitual abode and/or sources of livelihood” [2]. H
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