[A retrospective study of the health status, nutritional status and growth of interracially adopted children].

The results are described of a retrospective study, per questionnaire among parents who adopted children from developing countries. Results are given of 228 children. Approximately 100 gastro-intestinal, 80 upper respiratory (nose-, ear- and throat-)diseases and 50 dermatologic problems were diagnosed. We further studied the state of nutrition and the medical information which the parents received from the country of origin. 30-40% of the children arrived malnourished and the catch-up growth was determined after a stay of at least 6 months in the Netherlands. Suggestions are made for a general medical examination of adopted children from the developing countries.