A new supplement in Pediatrics suggests that early life interventions can improve later health outcomes and address pressing concerns around youth mental health. The Life Course Intervention Research Network calls for a major focus on supporting children's positive health development and sense of well-being.
Firearm-related deaths have surpassed car accidents as the leading cause of death among children under 19, with a widening racial gap. Secure gun storage counseling and hospital-based violence intervention programs show promise for prevention and reduction of all three categories of gun violence.
Researchers at MUSC have developed a device to remove toxic chemotherapy drugs, such as doxorubicin, from the blood after cancer treatment. The device uses heat and an activated carbon filter to effectively remove the drug, potentially reducing harmful side effects.
A new study found that integrating behavioral health into pediatric primary care at federally qualified health centers increases access, timeliness of care, and diagnostic rates of ADHD among diverse children. The model resulted in higher follow-up rates with behavioral health clinicians and reduced polypharmacy.
The study found that 43% of transgender and gender diverse students identified as nonbinary, with similar numbers identifying as pansexual (1.7%) as gay or lesbian (1.6%). Many LGBTQ+ youth reported depressive symptoms and experiences of identity-based bullying.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that Hispanic/Latino youths experiencing food insecurity have poorer HDL-C levels, greater fasting glucose and triglycerides, and a higher risk of metabolic syndrome. The study highlights the need for nutrition policies to address food insecurity among this population.
A new manifestation of COVID-19 has been identified in young children, characterized by croup, a common respiratory illness marked by a distinctive barking cough. The omicron strain's preference for the upper airway may account for the sudden appearance of croup during the surge.
A new study suggests that infusing healthy hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells into mice with sepsis can improve bacterial clearance, reduce tissue damage, and prolong survival. The infusion also boosts immunomodulatory cells, which regulate immune responses and decrease inflammation.
A study found that using two cannulas to place newborns in respiratory failure on life-sustaining ECMO increases mortality rates. The safest path is a single cannula in the right internal jugular, which can remove oxygen-poor blood and add oxygen before returning it to the baby.
A study conducted in six sub-Saharan African countries found high mortality rates among hospitalized children and adolescents with COVID-19. The research highlights the need for targeted resources to fight the pandemic in Africa.
A new study by Dr. Brian Stansfield and Dr. Jessica Gancar found a clear linear relationship between mortality and red blood cell transfusion volume in newborns on ECMO, with a 14% decrease in survival chances for every transfusion. The study suggests that reducing transfusion volumes may improve outcomes.
A national survey reveals that over 85% of primary care practices struggle to access pediatric medication advice and evidence-based psychotherapy. Policy changes may be necessary to address these barriers and improve child behavioral health treatment.
A new study reveals that over 85% of primary care practices face difficulties in obtaining evidence-based pediatric behavioral health care, including medication advice and family-based therapy. Policy changes are necessary to address these barriers and ensure comprehensive care for children's growing behavioral health needs.
A new study found that adolescents who reported suicidal ideation were more likely to report infrequent seat belt use and drunk driving. The researchers emphasized the need for mental health support to protect adolescent health and well-being.
Researchers at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago developed a simple diagnostic model that accurately predicts pneumonia risk, eliminating x-ray confirmation for low-risk patients. The model, based on age, fever duration, and breath sounds, may facilitate broader implementation in primary care settings.
A third of US kids lack good and consistent health insurance, with inadequate insurance driving the trend. Families with private insurance and children with special needs are disproportionately affected.
The American Pediatric Society (APS) has named Dr. Megan A. Moreno the recipient of the 2022 Norman J. Siegel Outstanding Science Award, recognizing her significant contributions to pediatric science and adolescent health. The award acknowledges her pioneering work on social media research and its impact on adolescent wellbeing.
A new study found that adolescents in the US doubled their non-school related screen time to 7.7 hours a day during the pandemic, leading to increased depression and anxiety. The study also revealed that children of color and those from lower-income families spent more time on screens than their white, wealthier peers.
A nationwide study found over 63,000 golf cart injuries in children and adolescents from 2010-2019, with a steady increase each year. The majority of injuries were superficial, but fractures and dislocations also occurred, often in the head and neck region.
A study analyzing TikTok videos under the hashtag #preworkout found that dry scooping, where undiluted powder is put in the mouth followed by liquid, amassed over 8 million views. The study suggests physicians should be aware of pre-workout's dangers, especially among teens.
A recent study has found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in cases of children ingesting small magnets and button batteries, which can cause serious harm or even death. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that emergency departments saw a higher proportion of battery and magnet ingestions during the pandemic.
A study found that pediatric clinical trials in the US were underrepresented by Black children, Hispanic/Latino children, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian, and Native Pacific Islander children. Researchers are calling for improvements to enrollment processes to increase diversity and generalizability of trial results.
A survey of healthcare providers found that technology changes during the pandemic may contribute to burnout, with negative perceptions of telehealth visits increasing the odds of reporting burnout. The study highlights the need for adequate institutional resources to promote provider well-being and combat burnout.
Children in foster care are more likely to be prescribed psychotropic medications, with a prevalence of 35% compared to 8% for non-foster peers, according to a new study. The research found significant differences in medication use across all age groups.
Researchers found that social distancing measures and masking were effective at stopping the spread of flu and RSV viruses. The study concluded that these measures are effective tools to reduce the rates of potentially serious infections like influenza and RSV in children.
A study found that bystander intervention can reduce the risk of drowning child deaths or severe disabilities by 80%. Children submerged under water for less than 5 minutes and rescued by a bystander were more likely to recover. Early rescue can lead to good outcomes in victims of drowning.
Research shows that staff training programs and gun safety educational materials increase doctor/parent conversations about gun safety, leading to safer storage practices and reduced firearm injuries. Pediatricians who received training and support were more likely to counsel parents on gun safety, resulting in improved firearm screeni...
New research found that family violence-related injuries in youth ages 10-15 significantly increased during the pandemic stay-at-home order, with over half of patients reporting an event involving a family member. The study also revealed that alcohol, illegal drugs, and weapons were involved in more cases during the pandemic period.
A study of 104 transgender and non-binary youth found a 60% decrease in moderate and severe depression and a 73% decrease in suicidality after receiving puberty blockers or gender-affirming hormones. The study suggests that access to gender-affirming medical care is critical for ensuring the well-being of young people.
A new study has found that breast milk from marijuana-using mothers does not negatively impact the short-term health of early premature infants. However, researchers note that more research is needed to understand the potential long-term effects of this exposure on these children's development and health.
A study of 307 college students found that nearly 80% reported trouble concentrating, with 57.6% citing responsibilities at home as a barrier. Mental health issues were also prevalent, with 46.3% of respondents experiencing them.
Research suggests that baby-wearing products pose a significant risk of injury to young children, with 61% of injuries occurring in children under 5 months old. The study found that 19.3% of these infants required hospitalization due to head injuries, highlighting the need for parent education on proper use and sizing of baby carriers.
Research found a significant increase in non-accidental child injuries during COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, attributed to economic and emotional stress. The study analyzed data from nine pediatric trauma centers and found that the number of child abuse victims over age 5 tripled during the pandemic period.
A recent study found that pediatric patients with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) who received initial IVIG plus Infliximab had improved cardiac outcomes, reduced need for additional therapies, and faster resolution of inflammation. The updated care pathway recommends this intensified therapy for all MIS-C patients.
A randomized clinical trial of 125 young adults with concussions found that restricting screen time for 48 hours significantly reduced symptom duration. The study, published in JAMA Pediatrics, suggests that limiting screen time may be a useful strategy to accelerate concussion recovery.
A randomized clinical trial shows that a community-based weight management program delivered at health centers improved BMI in Hispanic children aged six to 12. The program, which included text messaging and connections to community resources, also reduced sugary beverage consumption, increased physical activity, and led to healthier l...
A new USC study found that infants with histories of reported maltreatment are two to three times more likely to die from medical causes. Foster care placement was also found to reduce the risk of infant death due to medical causes by roughly half.
A new study by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston found that telemedicine appointments combined with in-person visits significantly reduced the risk of further illness for children with medically complex cases. The study assessed 422 patients and found that those who received both telemedicine and c...
A newly discovered fat 'shield' protects natural killer cells from their own deadly biological weapons, but also allows some cancer cells to evade an immune system attack. The shield is made of lipids and reinforces the cell membrane before an attack, preventing the toxic substances from penetrating the membrane.
A new intervention program, First 1,000 Days, has been shown to decrease excess weight gain in infants. The program combines individualized health coaching for pregnant women with changes in clinical care, resulting in lower odds of being overweight at six months and one year.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that heart problems in children hospitalized with multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C) mostly resolved within a few months. The study, which followed 45 patients, showed that most cardiac and immunologic abnormalities returned to normal within weeks after hospital discharge.
A recent study published in Pediatrics found that parents of children with the most complex medical conditions are more likely to report poor or fair mental health and struggle to find community help. The study recommends that healthcare systems provide support resources and prioritize mental health for these families.
A large study found that depression symptoms in fathers of premature infants persist after discharge from the NICU, affecting their ability to engage in positive parenting activities. The researchers emphasize the need for increased attention to mental health support for new fathers during this critical period.
A predictive model has been developed to identify pediatric patients at risk of developing blood clots or venous thromboembolisms. The model includes 11 risk factors and has been validated on over 44,000 separate admissions. In a trial called CLOT, the model is being used to inform personalized prevention plans for high-risk patients.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that child-targeted TV ads for fast-food meals often overemphasize premiums like toys and games, relative to the actual food being sold. This marketing practice is deceptive and violates industry guidelines aimed at preventing childhood obesity.
A national survey of parents found that only half of children under 8 years old used recommended child car seats or booster seats in ride-share vehicles. Parents reported lower rates of child car seat use in ride-share compared to their usual travel method, highlighting the need for education and enforcement
Researchers defined parameters for white blood cell counts in children's urine to diagnose and treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) more effectively. The new guidelines could help speed treatment, prevent complications, and reduce the risk of lifelong consequences like kidney scarring and hypertension.
Researchers at Children's Hospital Colorado found that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive component of marijuana, persists in breast milk for up to six weeks. The study supports recommendations to abstain from marijuana use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
A study published in Academic Pediatrics found that parents who reported more child car seat hassles were less likely to follow American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations on child passenger safety. Parents who identified more hassles were more likely to have their children travel unrestrained or not use a car seat consistently.
A NYU-led study shows that a first-of-its-kind parenting program significantly improves parent-child interactions in low-income families. The Smart Beginnings Project addresses early childhood development challenges, providing a comprehensive approach to promoting school readiness and equity.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine found that COVID-19 transmission was extremely low among children and staff at North Carolina day camps, with only two cases linked to possible on-site transmission. The camps implemented strict safety measures, including masking, distancing, and frequent hand washing, which helped avoid viral spread.
A new study published in Pediatrics found that younger and older adolescents have similar weight loss and improvement in quality of life after bariatric surgery. The study's results suggest that age should not be a barrier to bariatric surgery for adolescents with severe obesity when medically indicated.
Researchers evaluated new COVID-19-related pediatric resuscitation procedures using simulation to identify problems and improve guidelines. The study found that two nurses were needed at the patient's bedside during resuscitation to prevent task overload, and communication needed refinement due to PPE limitations.
A 15-year research campaign led by Rush pediatricians resulted in new national manufacturing standards making microwaves more difficult for young children to open. The change aims to protect kids from severe microwave-related burns that scar hundreds of children under 5 each year.
The System of Hospitals for Innovation in Pediatrics - Medical Devices (SHIP-MD) Virtual Workshop will focus on accelerating medical device development for children. The workshop aims to enhance safe and effective pediatric care options by addressing challenges such as clinical trials, funding, and regulatory approval.
The American Pediatric Society has announced its new class of 55 distinguished members, including leaders in child health education, research, policy, and clinical practice. These individuals have made significant contributions to advancing the field of academic pediatrics.
Researchers found that linking outpatient providers to hospitalists improved reduced hospital days, readmissions, and PICU stays. Parents also reported higher satisfaction rates with inpatient care.
A new Vanderbilt-designed prediction model can identify infants at high risk of neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) after opioid exposure, allowing for early discharge and potentially reducing hospital costs. The tool uses several factors, including gestational age, type of opioids, and other drugs, to estimate the risk of NAS.
The American Pediatric Society recognizes Dr. Devaskar's outstanding leadership, research, and education efforts in pediatric medicine, particularly in neonatal care. Her work has made a significant impact on improving children's health and well-being, and she is an inspiration to many in the field.
A new study suggests that children and adolescents diagnosed with white-coat hypertension may progress to sustained hypertension if not monitored regularly. White-coat hypertension is a condition where blood pressure increases only in a doctor's office, but its impact on kids is unclear.