More than 20,000 foreign adoptions took place in 2002, according to the Children's Hospital of Boston. Around 75 percent of the children come from low per-capita-income countries where they have been institutionalized, creating the potential for health problems. Being aware of potential health problems can help make your international adoption process go more smoothly.
Infectious Diseases
If you're adopting internationally, there's an increased risk that your child could have an infectious disease such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B or parasites, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. These diseases are usually treatable, but the American Academy of Family Physicians recommends making sure your family's vaccinations are current at least six months before your new child joins the family--some vaccinations need that long to become effective.
Early Illnesses
Don't be surprised if your adopted child gets sick during the first month in his new home, according to KidsHealth.org, an online health information resource for parents maintained by the Nemours Foundation. Your child's body is probably responding to his new diet and new environment, which includes germs his system hasn't encountered before. If your adopted child has stomach issues, diarrhea or a mild cold within a few weeks of arriving home, don't worry--but do call your pediatrician if symptoms persist for more than a few weeks.
Emotional Health
Children adopted from other countries can adapt and thrive in their new homes, but it's not uncommon for adopted children to have some emotional issues to work through, according to the Children's Hospital of Boston. What kind of emotional issues a child has really depends on his pre-adoption environment. Children who lived in a place with limited food may overeat or hoard food until they realize they're not going to be hungry, while children who were institutionalized often experience developmental delays. Often, emotional health issues just need time to improve, but if you are worried about your adopted child, a combination of counseling and medical care can help.
