Paediatric Problems in Various Ethnic Groups

Abstract

A multicultural approach to paediatrics can help in the identification, quantification and management of the problems of multi-ethnic children. White ethnic groups are more likely to have cystic fibrosis, congenital dislocation of the hip or a strawberry mark. Jaundice may be under-estimated or missed in ethnic Afro-Caribbeans who have a high incidence of glucose-6-PD deficiency. Chinese eyes should be looked at more carefully as squint may be missed. Cultural child abuse may be prevented by social education of the Asian fathers by health professionals. If the Royal Colleges can provide advice on the ethnic minority as well as majority, the British Government will not have to look elsewhere in her responsibility to serve the whole of the British nation.