9. Raise Healthy Children
The well-being of the almost two million New York City infants, children and adolescents is an important public health priority. Children's health is complex and affected by many factors and conditions. Age-appropriate primary and preventive care is important for healthy growth and development. Some of the key issues that affect children's health include:
- Teen pregnancy, which has not decreased in New York City for the past five years and remains much higher than the national rate
- Immunizations, which protect children from serious and life-threatening diseases
- Breastfeeding, which significantly benefits maternal and infant health (formula-fed infants are at increased risk of many infections, cancers and other illnesses)
- Asthma, the most common cause of hospitalization for New York City children under age 14
- Lead paint, the primary source of childhood lead poisoning, which can result in learning and behavior problems and delays in mental development
- Developmental disabilities, which cause school-aged children to have more doctor visits, more hospital stays, lower school attendance and a greater risk of repeating grades.
DOHMH: Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
DOHMH: Bureau of Maternal, Infant and Reproductive Health
DOHMH: Bureau of Immunization
DOHMH: Asthma Initiative
DOHMH: School Health Program
DOHMH: Early Intervention
