Children and Youth

Ontario must address the autism crisis. 60,000 children are waiting for care

Despite billions allocated for autism services, many families are still waiting – sometimes for years. To fix Ontario’s autism services, we should redirect resources toward programs that have been proven to work.

Bouncing back together: How to build resilience among youth

By addressing structural determinants, we can create supportive environments where resilience is not a rare exception but a common experience among all youth.

‘I wish he would have just hit me’: Bill criminalizing ‘insidious’ form of domestic abuse dies with prorogation

Coercive control, a form of intimate partner violence, was nearly criminalized in Canada before parliament was prorogued on Jan. 6. Will new Parliament revive it?

‘Your body, my choice’: American politics and the looming threat to reproductive freedoms in Canada

It is incumbent on us to engage with and defend reproductive rights, because of and despite what is happening in the United States.

Double standards: How one twin’s health opens doors while the other faces barriers

The journey a set of twins underscores both the strengths and the shortcomings of the system of evaluations and children's health resources.

We must tackle misinformation. Our youth’s health depends on it

It's time to treat misinformation as the public health crisis it truly is, particularly among youth in marginalized Black, Indigenous and People of Colour communities.

Turning 18 is not so sweet for young adults with disabilities

Reaching adulthood should be a celebratory milestone, filled with greater independence and possibilities for the future. But for the estimated 200,000 young Canadians with disabilities, turning 18 often feels like falling off a cliff.

‘A plan to make a plan’: Experts speak out on B.C.’s involuntary care proposal

As B.C.'s provincial election looms near, Premier David Eby floats plans to expand involuntary care. Experts weigh in on the announcement.

Prescribing evidence: Combatting anti-scientific policies on puberty blockers

None of the policies preventing puberty blockers can be justified, as they are entirely discriminatory. If cisgender-affirming care is on the table, then transgender-affirming care must join it.

Bridging generational divides in medical education: Gen Z med students’ POV

Adapting medical education for Gen Z learners isn’t about coddling – it's about evolution.

Vaping: A valuable harm reduction tool or a public health concern? Experts weigh in

What is Canada to do about e-cigarettes? Does vaping pose a legitimate public health threat or is it a far safer alternative for those who would otherwise be vulnerable to the known harms of cigarettes?

Beyond acceptance: Fostering inclusive care for sex and gender minority youth

Sex and gender minority youth are disproportionately impacted by mental health concerns tied to the COVID-19 pandemic. But they're also less likely to find adequate supports.

Fluoride in Canadian taps: Is it ethical to neglect the oral needs of the marginalized?

The cessation of community water fluoridation has left a gap in the oral health landscape, particularly among vulnerable populations.

People with disabilities account for 13% of all pregnancies, but their needs are invisible

People with disabilities need inclusive, accessible pregnancy care that treats them with respect, dignity and acceptance.

We must address the dangers of e-cigarettes and dual use

It's time to move beyond oversimplified narratives and confront the complex realities of e-cigarette use.

‘You just go to the bathroom and cry it out’: Paula, licensed practical nurse, Red Deer

Food oral immunotherapy through a parent’s lens: A paradigm shift in food allergy management

A case study highlights the importance of the patient’s perspective in navigating food allergies and of advocating for yourself in the face of scarce resources.

Prescribing compassion: Standing up against transphobic policies in Alberta  

As medical students, we add to the chorus of voices calling for the Alberta government to reconsider its policies. If the goal is really to “support with kindness and inclusion,” Smith must rescind her attack on trans youth.

Waging war on our immune systems: Immunologist explains the horrifying toll of measles

Immunologist Samira Jeimy breaks down the horrifying toll that measles takes on our bodies and communities - and what can be done to stop it.

‘Why would I not keep going?’ Month-long sobriety challenges establish healthy habits

Dry January and Sober October could be the start to forming long-term, healthier relationships with alcohol.