As previously mentioned in Part I of this article, health issues of internationally adopted children tend to be the primary concern of potential adoptive parents. The more serious medical conditions prevalent with adopted children are HIV, hepatitis, FASD (fetal alcohol spectrum disorder), sensory integration dysfunction, and reactive attachment disorder. Each of these conditions are discussed in greater detail below:
HIV & Hepatitis. Typically, blood tests will determine if a child has been infected with HIV or hepatitis. The majority of countries that participate in international adoption are required to provide all blood test results from a child’s medical history. Despite this being the case, there is no guarantee the child will not be exposed to such diseases after testing. Therefore, it is important to make sure blood tests have been conducted recently, and if not, to have the adoptive child undergo testing as soon as possible.
FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). FASD, otherwise known as fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, is a health risk more common and widespread in Eastern Europe and Russia, than most other international adoption locations. It is generally uncommon in most parts of Asia, due to the lack of alcohol culture and consumption. FASD manifests in situations where the fetus is exposed to alcohol on a regular basis throughout the pregnancy, or when the birthmother partakes in irregular episodes of binge drinking. It is important to keep in mind that FASD isn’t about one specific defect that materializes as a result. Instead, it is an accumulation or pattern of related issues that transpire. Physicians and medical experts at international adoption clinics are continually looking for telltale signs of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Some of the more common physical and emotional signs of FASD commonly include deformities of joints, limbs, and fingers; heart defects; vision difficulties; delayed development; and mental health behavioral issues such as anxiety, hyperactivity, impulse control, and short attention span, among others.
Sensory Integration Dysfunction. Sensory integration dysfunction is a condition in which the brain is unable to correctly process information produced by the senses. An example of this is when the nervous system overreacts to heat or cold, or even repetitive sounds, bringing about withdrawal, aggression, and/or clumsiness in the child. Sensory integration dysfunction commonly results when a baby is unable to explore their surroundings, and neglected while in their crib for long periods of time, thereby not receiving affection from a caretaker. The child’s senses proceed to interpret information inappropriately. Sensory integration dysfunction can be overcome through therapy, where deductions are made regarding stimulations that are comforting versus stimulations that are aggravating, and how to avoid the negative and harmful stimuli.
Reactive Attachment Disorder. Reactive attachment disorder occurs when a child has tremendous difficulty forming loving, long-term relationships. This usually results from abuse or neglect, or in circumstances where a child has not formed a bond with a parent or primary caregiver, and is therefore unable to maintain a healthy, lasting relationship with anyone. Typically, such conditions that damage a child’s ability to create attachments with others usually takes place within the first two to three years of the child’s life. Although this condition can be potentially detrimental for a child, medical experts believe that once a child bonds with someone who plays a significant role in the child’s life, they will gain the ability to create and establish new and lasting bonds with others.
If you would like more information about the international adoption process, call McDowell Chartered legal services at 316-269-0746. Our experienced staff of attorneys will help you with all of your adoption questions and concerns. Call us now to learn how we can make a difference for you!