Saint Genest Lerpt

Many children experience abuse or neglect each year, which can lead to both short-term and long-term effects on their mental and physical health. In France, over 300,000 minors are under child protective services (CPS), but there is limited data on their health status and how it changes over time. The PEGASE program was created to provide standardized medical follow-up, both physical and psychiatric, for children taken into care by CPS. This program aims to detect and address health issues early by offering regular assessments and care. Children enrolled in the PEGASE program receive an initial comprehensive health check when they enter care, followed by 20 scheduled evaluations up to age 7. These assessments use standardized tools to identify potential developmental delays or disorders early, allowing timely intervention. The study includes a control group of children under CPS care who do not participate in PEGASE, called the ESPER cohort, to compare the program's effectiveness and provide valuable health data for this vulnerable population. Participants in the ESPER cohort will be followed for two years with data collected at enrollment, one year, and two years. Information such as health, development, school integration, and care pathways will be gathered through questionnaires and health records, either in person or by phone. Researchers will evaluate mental health changes over two years as the primary outcome and will also assess physical health, development skills, and the program's cost-effectiveness. The study plans to include 220 children under 3.5 years old who are newly entering CPS care and whose guardians agree to participate.