Utilization of early detection examinations by children in Germany. Results of the cross-sectional KiGGS Wave 2 study

Abstract

Examinations for early detection of diseases (called U-Untersuchungen in Germany) are among the most important prevention measures at childhood age. According to KiGGS Wave 2 data, participation rates are over 95% for most of these examinations. 99.7% and 99.6% of children, respectively, who had reached the recommended age for these examinations participated in the U1 and U2 examinations, 98.0% and 98.1%, respectively, the U8 and U9 examinations. Participation rates for children from families with low socioeconomic status and those with a two-sided migration background are slightly lower. A comparison with previous KiGGS waves shows that the utilization of early detection examinations has increased significantly over the last ten years. During this time, social differences which were previously pronounced have decreased.