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The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research

A special issue of International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (ISSN 1660-4601). This special issue belongs to the section "Children's Health".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2022) | Viewed by 25846

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Danielle Jansen

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
University Medical Center, University of Groningen, 9712 TG Groningen, The Netherlands
Interests: health care utilization; health care trajectories; health systems; organization of care; vulnerable families; children and adolescents, medical sociology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Childhood is a very vulnerable period of human life. Children are highly dependent on others to satisfy their basic needs and on decisions that others make for them right from the start; this makes them particularly vulnerable (Bagattini, 2019). Children are not only vulnerable because of the lack of cognitive, physical and emotional abilities, but they are also vulnerable because of specific conditions in which they are born, grow, and live, and the wider set of forces and systems shaping the conditions of daily life. These forces and systems include economic policies and systems, development agendas, social norms, social policies and political systems, and health systems. It is important to invest in health for children because it is the foundation-period for the development of individuals and a critical period for societies and economies, as it determines the formation of human and social capital (e.g., health and career trajectories). Inequality in childhood means inequality across the life cycle; that is why investing in children matters and benefits all.

The Netherlands is one of the most child-protective countries and children in the Netherlands are consistently ranked among the happiest in the world. They also have access to a good education and health care system. In addition, Dutch children are at the top of the ranking when it comes to physical and mental health, and social and learning skills. However, even though we score high compared to many prosperous countries worldwide, the Netherlands do not score high on all factors and certainly not for all subpopulations. This means there are still concerns regarding specific areas of health care and certain groups of children and adolescents.

In this special issue of the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH) we want to provide a comprehensive overview of the health of Dutch children up to the age of 18. To be as comprehensive as possible, we are looking for contributions that cover all aspects of health—e.g., daily functioning, bodily functions, physical and mental well-being, quality of life and social participation—highlighted from the perspective of different disciplines and concerning both Dutch and ethnic minority group children. New research papers and reviews are welcomed. Other manuscript types accepted include position papers, brief reports, and commentaries.

References

Alexander Bagattini. Children’s well-being and vulnerability. Ethics Soc. Welf. 2019, 13, 211–215, DOI:10.1080/17496535.2019.1647973.

Dr. Danielle Jansen
Guest Editor

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2500 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • children
  • the Netherlands
  • inequality, ethnic minority, physical health
  • mental health
  • social participation, quality of life

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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7 pages, 293 KiB  
Communication
The Need for a Data Ecosystem for Youth Mental Health in The Netherlands
by Marloes Kleinjan, Danielle E. M. C. Jansen and Maartje van den Essenburg
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11499; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811499 - 13 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2055
Abstract
The Netherlands is missing nationally representative data on child and adolescent mental health, e.g., on prevalence, course, and consequences of psychological disorders and mental health care utilization. Researchers and policy makers also lack a basic data infrastructure that is necessary to provide timely [...] Read more.
The Netherlands is missing nationally representative data on child and adolescent mental health, e.g., on prevalence, course, and consequences of psychological disorders and mental health care utilization. Researchers and policy makers also lack a basic data infrastructure that is necessary to provide timely and reliable data crucial for benchmarking and informed decision making. In this article, we describe the necessity for a clear and well-organized overview of data on youth mental health and mental health care. We look back on three key moments in time to illustrate the breadth of the desire for data. Barriers in collecting structured, national data on a frequent basis are discussed, and several recommendations are provided of what is needed to move towards a data ecosystem that can help us to track the development and mental well-being of all children and youth and the impact of the care they receive. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
13 pages, 1222 KiB  
Article
A Safe Home? A Qualitative Study into the Experiences of Adolescents Growing Up in the Dutch Area Impacted by Earthquakes Induced by Gas Extraction
by Elianne A. Zijlstra, Mijntje D. C. ten Brummelaar, Mileen S. Cuijpers, Wendy J. Post, Ingrid D. C. van Balkom and Hamed Seddighi
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(8), 4716; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19084716 - 13 Apr 2022
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2359
Abstract
For decades, the Netherlands has experienced minor earthquakes due to gas extraction. This study aims to obtain insight into the experiences of adolescents and the impact of these earthquakes on their well-being and living environment. Focus groups were held with 24 adolescents, and [...] Read more.
For decades, the Netherlands has experienced minor earthquakes due to gas extraction. This study aims to obtain insight into the experiences of adolescents and the impact of these earthquakes on their well-being and living environment. Focus groups were held with 24 adolescents, and interviews were held with 3 adolescents (N = 27; M = 15 years). Through qualitative analysis, we identified six themes. The adolescents shared experiences of anxiety related to the earthquakes and their consequences and considered these to be a normal part of their life. Anxiety and feelings of endangerment not only related to their own experiences but were also connected to the impact of earthquakes on their social environment, such as the restoration of buildings. Several sources of support (e.g., talking, social cohesion) were mentioned to deal with the negative consequences of the earthquakes. A lack of trust in the government was an additional main theme, with adolescents mentioning several needs, potentially relevant to policymakers in the Netherlands. Growing up in the gas extraction area of Groningen had many consequences on the adolescents in the study, who felt inhibited from expressing feelings of anxiety and fear. To support their needs, interventions at the individual, family, educational, societal, and policy levels are recommended. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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15 pages, 597 KiB  
Article
Process Evaluation of the Child and Youth Healthcare Intervention ‘Medical Advice for Sick-Reported Students in Primary School’ (MASS-PS)
by Esther Karen Pijl, Yvonne T. M. Vanneste, Jolanda J. P. Mathijssen, Frans J. M. Feron and Angelique E. de Rijk
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(7), 4409; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19074409 - 6 Apr 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2357
Abstract
School attendance is crucial for the development of a child. Sickness absence is the most common type of absenteeism and can be a red flag for underlying problems. To address sickness absence, the intervention Medical Advice for Sick-reported Students for Primary School (MASS-PS) [...] Read more.
School attendance is crucial for the development of a child. Sickness absence is the most common type of absenteeism and can be a red flag for underlying problems. To address sickness absence, the intervention Medical Advice for Sick-reported Students for Primary School (MASS-PS) was recently developed. It targets children at risk and is a school-based child and youth health care intervention. The present study is a process evaluation of the intervention. MASS-PS was implemented and evaluated in 29 schools in the West-Brabant region of the Netherlands, during three school years (2017–2020). Attendance coordinators (ACs) from the different schools were interviewed in six focus group interviews as well as in over 200 individual conversations, of which logbooks were kept. Content analysis was used based on a framework of implementation elements. During the first year of the study, the uptake was low. Changes were made by the project group to improve the uptake. The ACs generally considered the MASS-PS as compatible and relevant, but suggested improvements by adding a medical consultation function with a child and youth healthcare physician and increasing the threshold for selecting children at risk. They saw several personal benefits, although time was necessary to learn to use the intervention. An organisational barrier was the lack of teaching staff. A strength in the organisational structure was the appointment of ACs. A major event in the sociological structure was the COVID-19 pandemic. ACs felt that the intervention helped them keep track of sickness absence during the pandemic. The Medical Advice for Sick-reported Students for Primary School intervention was implemented successfully, and the process evaluation gave insight into possible improvements. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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28 pages, 1843 KiB  
Article
Prevalence of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Students with Emotional and Behavioral Disorders in Special Education Schools from a Multi-Informant Perspective
by Evelyne C. P. Offerman, Michiel W. Asselman, Floor Bolling, Petra Helmond, Geert-Jan J. M. Stams and Ramón J. L. Lindauer
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3411; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063411 - 14 Mar 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5181
Abstract
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of developing severe emotional and behavioral problems; however, little research is published on ACEs for students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) in special education (SE) schools. We therefore systematically explored the prevalence, [...] Read more.
Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are associated with an increased risk of developing severe emotional and behavioral problems; however, little research is published on ACEs for students with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) in special education (SE) schools. We therefore systematically explored the prevalence, type and timing of ACEs in these students from five urban SE schools in the Netherlands (Mage = 11.58 years; 85.1% boys) from a multi-informant perspective, using students’ self-reports (n = 169), parent reports (n = 95) and school files (n = 172). Almost all students experienced at least one ACE (96.4% self-reports, 89.5% parent reports, 95.4% school files), and more than half experienced four or more ACEs (74.5% self-reports, 62.7% parent reports, 59.9% school files). A large majority of students experienced maltreatment, which often co-occurred with household challenges and community stressors. Additionally, 45.9% of the students experienced their first ACE before the age of 4. Students with EBD in SE who live in poverty or in single-parent households were more likely to report multiple ACEs. Knowledge of the prevalence of ACEs may help understand the severe problems and poor long-term outcomes of students with EBD in SE. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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11 pages, 880 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Effects of Environmental Factors on the Development of 0–4-Year Old Children in The Netherlands
by Luuk van Wel, Paula van Dommelen, Moniek Zuurbier, Debbie Heinen, Jennie Odink, Janine Bezem, Paul H. Verkerk, Anjoeka Pronk, Gerard Hoek and Eelco Kuijpers
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(15), 7782; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18157782 - 22 Jul 2021
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2544
Abstract
Air pollution, noise, and green space are important environmental exposures, having been linked to a variety of specific health outcomes. However, there are few studies addressing overall early life development. To assess their effects, associations between developmental milestones for a large population of [...] Read more.
Air pollution, noise, and green space are important environmental exposures, having been linked to a variety of specific health outcomes. However, there are few studies addressing overall early life development. To assess their effects, associations between developmental milestones for a large population of 0–4-year old children in The Netherlands and environmental exposures were explored. Developmental milestones and background characteristics were provided by Preventive Child Health Care (PCHC) and supplemented with data from Statistics Netherlands. Milestones were summarized and standardized into an aggregate score measuring global development. Four age groups were selected. Environmental exposures were assigned to geocoded addresses using publicly available maps for PM2.5, PM10, PMcoarse, NO2, EC, road traffic noise, and green space. Associations were investigated using single and multiple-exposure logistic regression models. 43,916 PCHC visits by 29,524 children were available. No consistent associations were found for air pollution and road traffic noise. Green space was positively associated in single and multiple-exposure models although it was not significant in all age groups (OR 1.01 (0.95; 1.08) (1 year) to 1.07 (1.01; 1.14) (2 years)). No consistent associations were found between air pollution, road traffic noise, and global child development. A positive association of green space was indicated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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8 pages, 320 KiB  
Opinion
A Dutch Perspective on Two Health Related Issues Regarding Children and Adolescents with Intellectual Disabilities
by Xavier Moonen, Dederieke Festen, Esther Bakker-van Gijsel and Jessica Vervoort-Schel
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11698; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811698 - 16 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1774
Abstract
In this opinion article, we want to inspire readers by highlighting recent Dutch developments about two important health related issues regarding the quality of life of children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Firstly we focus on the prevention, treatment and reduction of (disability-related) [...] Read more.
In this opinion article, we want to inspire readers by highlighting recent Dutch developments about two important health related issues regarding the quality of life of children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities. Firstly we focus on the prevention, treatment and reduction of (disability-related) somatic and psychological problems by specialized physicians for people with intellectual disabilities. Secondly, we emphasize the importance of the prevention of adverse childhood experiences and the promotion of protective and compensatory experiences. Subsequently, we stress the need for trauma informed care to support children and adolescents with intellectual disabilities who encounter adverse events. A specialized and multidisciplinary approach is advised as is the need for promoting healthy (family) relations with a focus on (co)regulation and connection as a basis for recovery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
7 pages, 297 KiB  
Viewpoint
Strengthening Medical Care for Young People in the Netherlands: A Reflection
by Danielle Jansen, Yvonne Vanneste-van Zandvoort, Károly Illy, Arne Popma and Marjolein Y. Berger
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(18), 11487; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191811487 - 13 Sep 2022
Viewed by 2135
Abstract
To improve medical care for young people in the Netherlands, various professional groups representing physicians who provide medical care to children have developed a vision called ‘strengthening medical care for young people’. The purpose of this viewpoint is to reflect on the implementation [...] Read more.
To improve medical care for young people in the Netherlands, various professional groups representing physicians who provide medical care to children have developed a vision called ‘strengthening medical care for young people’. The purpose of this viewpoint is to reflect on the implementation of proposals to augment cooperation and coordination between the professional groups involved. Our reflection demonstrates that additional action regarding cooperation and coordination is still necessary to strengthen this care for young people. First, regarding the practical implementation of collaboration, the guidelines are unclear, and many are out-of-date. Second, adequate structured interdisciplinary training and intervision are lacking for physicians frequently collaborating in the care of young people. Third, interdisciplinary access to patient files is too complex and time-consuming. We recommend structured monitoring of the implementation of all improvement proposals, regarding both processes and outcomes. In addition, we recommend collaboration with physicians treating mentally disabled individuals to improve medical care for this group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
10 pages, 538 KiB  
Viewpoint
The Preventive Child and Youth Healthcare Service in the Netherlands: The State of the Art and Challenges Ahead
by Yvonne T. M. Vanneste, Caren I. Lanting and Symone B. Detmar
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8736; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148736 - 18 Jul 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3777
Abstract
The Netherlands has a unique system for promoting child and youth health, known as the preventive Child and Youth Healthcare service (CYH). The CYH makes an important contribution to the development and health of children and young people by offering (anticipatory) information, immunisation, [...] Read more.
The Netherlands has a unique system for promoting child and youth health, known as the preventive Child and Youth Healthcare service (CYH). The CYH makes an important contribution to the development and health of children and young people by offering (anticipatory) information, immunisation, and screening, identifying care needs and providing preventive support to children and their families from birth up to the age of 18 years. The CYH is offered free of charge and offers basic preventive care to all children and special preventive care to children who grow up in disadvantaged situations, such as children growing up in poverty or in a family where one of the members has a chronic health condition. Basic care is supported by 35 evidence-based guidelines and validated screening tools. Special care is supported by effective interventions. The impact of the CYH is high. It is estimated that every EUR 1 spent on the CYH provides EUR 11 back. Although the Dutch CYH is a solid public health system with a reach of up to 95% among young children, the access to this service could be further improved by paying more attention to health literacy, making special care available to all children in need and improving transmural and integrated care coordination. In addition, the generation of nationwide data could help to demonstrate the impact of the CYH and will direct and prioritise the necessary care. By continuously developing care on the basis of new (scientific) insights and (societal) issues, the CYH will continue to offer all children in the Netherlands the best preventive healthcare. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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6 pages, 292 KiB  
Viewpoint
Paediatric Care in The Netherlands: State of Affairs, Challenges and Prospects
by Danielle Jansen and Károly Illy
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(3), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031037 - 18 Jan 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1738
Abstract
There are many societal developments in The Netherlands, such as a rising and changing demand for care and support and a paradigm shift from curation to prevention, that currently—and in the near future—will have an impact on paediatric care. These developments both reveal [...] Read more.
There are many societal developments in The Netherlands, such as a rising and changing demand for care and support and a paradigm shift from curation to prevention, that currently—and in the near future—will have an impact on paediatric care. These developments both reveal potential risks in paediatric care and affect practices that require future improvement. In this viewpoint, we first present the most pressing developments for paediatrics, and we demonstrate why and how Dutch paediatricians have renewed their vision on paediatric care in order to cope with a changing society. It is a vision towards the year 2030 that gives children and paediatric care the right place in the Dutch healthcare landscape to guarantee accessible, high-quality, and effective care for every child at the right time. Realising this renewed vision requires however not only an adjustment from paediatricians and paediatricians in training, but also from professionals who work with them and from the Government that can facilitate or accelerate the implementation of the renewed vision in various ways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Health of Children in the Netherlands: State of the Art, Challenges Ahead and Perspectives for Future Research)
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