Nearly one-third of children in Quebec have received a diagnosis of at least one chronic health condition by the age of two and a half, according to a recent large-scale study.
Chronic Health Conditions Diagnosed in Toddlers
On February 26, 2026, the Institut de la statistique du Québec published findings from the “Grandir” study, the second phase of the Quebec Longitudinal Study of Child Development (ELDEQ), which began in 2021. The study is tracking more than 4,000 children born in 2020 and 2021 to understand the factors influencing their well-being, health, and development.
The report indicates that 34% of children aged two and a half have been diagnosed with at least one chronic health condition by a healthcare professional. These conditions include allergies, asthma, and food intolerances. This rate has increased from 17% at around 18 months of age. In 8% of cases, these chronic health conditions limit children’s daily activities.
The study also found that 11% of children the same age had received at least four courses of antibiotics in the 12 months prior to the survey, and 13% experienced at least one injury serious enough to require medical attention.
Experts Offer Perspective on the Findings
Quebec publication La Presse consulted several specialists regarding the Institut de la statistique’s report. According to these experts, the 34% of children with a chronic illness includes 17% with skin conditions, primarily eczema. Regarding antibiotic treatments and infections, experts noted that children between 0 and 2 years vintage can experience more than ten viral infections annually, which is considered normal as they build immunity through exposure in settings like home, daycare, and school.
The physicians emphasized the success of the bronchiolitis vaccine, introduced in 2024, in reducing illness among children. They also anticipate a significant decrease in food allergies in the coming years, as understanding of these conditions continues to improve.
Areas for Improvement Identified
Still, the physicians interviewed highlighted areas where improvements are needed, particularly in the management of certain more concerning conditions. They suggested that faster access to diagnosis and care for autism and speech and language delays is crucial. Finding specialists such as speech therapists, psychologists, and occupational therapists can often be challenging.
Even as this data focuses on Quebec, it may have parallels with trends in other regions. Since 2011, the French Longitudinal Study From Childhood (ELFE) has been following more than 18,000 children until adulthood to analyze their health, and development. The French Ministry of Health launched a plan to combat medical deserts in France in 2025.
