This Week in Pediatrics
Advancing child health: forecasting the next great research achievements | Pediatric Research
Project Baby Bear: Rapid precision care incorporating rWGS in 5 California children’s hospitals demonstrates improved clinical outcomes and reduced costs of care. Am. J. Hum. Genet. 108, 1231–1238 (2021). ... Lavelle, T. A. et al. Rapid genome sequencing compared with a gene pane...
Medical Groups Redouble Efforts on Vaccine, Infectious Disease Recommendations
Based on the review, vaccine ... of Pediatrics for children, by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) for adults, by the IDSA for individuals who are immunocompromised, and by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for pregnant patients. Vaccine recomm...
Trump signs order directing CDC to align with assessment calling for fewer childhood vaccines - CBS News
Following that assessment, the CDC, which is part of HHS, announced updated recommendations that would reduce the number of recommended immunizations for children from 17 to 11. The move prompted heavy criticism from medical experts and health ...
Research of the Day
Family-Based Treatment for Childhood Obesity: 5-Year Outcomes
This long-term follow-up evaluated family-based behavioral treatment (FBT) for childhood obesity. Children who received FBT maintained healthier BMI trajectories compared to usual care, with parental involvement being key to sustained success.
Key findings: (1) 25% greater BMI reduction maintained at 5 years; (2) Parental BMI change correlated with child outcomes; (3) Maintenance sessions improved long-term success.
Engage the whole family in obesity treatment—target the child alone is less effective. Focus on sustainable lifestyle changes, address family habits, and plan for ongoing support.
Popular Beliefs
Cold weather causes colds
What the evidence shows: Colds are caused by viruses, not cold temperatures. The association exists because people spend more time indoors in close proximity during winter, facilitating viral transmission. Additionally, dry indoor air may impair mucosal barriers. Hand hygiene and avoiding sick contacts are the real prevention strategies.
Remove ticks with a lit match or petroleum jelly
What the evidence shows: These methods can cause the tick to regurgitate into the wound, increasing disease transmission risk. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick close to the skin and pull upward with steady pressure. Save the tick for identification if possible.
Letting babies walk early causes bowlegs
What the evidence shows: There is no evidence that early walking causes bowlegs. Most infants have some degree of bowing that typically resolves by age 3-4. Pathologic bowing has other causes (Blount disease, rickets). Encourage normal motor development and monitor for asymmetric or progressive bowing.
Behaviors
Musical Training and Brain Development in Children: Longitudinal Neuroimaging Study
This 3-year study compared brain development in children receiving musical instrument training versus those doing sports or no organized activity. Music training was associated with enhanced auditory processing, motor coordination, and executive function networks.
Key findings: (1) Increased cortical thickness in auditory and motor regions; (2) Better performance on working memory and attention tasks; (3) Benefits correlated with practice duration.
Music education offers cognitive benefits beyond artistic development. When families ask about extracurriculars, mention music as a brain-healthy option. Benefits appear even with modest practice time.
Genetics
CRISPR Gene Editing for Sickle Cell Disease: Long-Term Follow-Up
Long-term data from CRISPR-edited sickle cell patients shows durable remission of vaso-occlusive crises in 95% of treated patients at 4-year follow-up. The one-time treatment has transformed the disease trajectory for participants.
Key findings: (1) No vaso-occlusive crises in 95% of patients; (2) Hemoglobin levels maintained in normal range; (3) No off-target editing effects detected. Access and affordability remain challenges.
Curative therapy for sickle cell disease is now reality, though access barriers remain. Stay informed about treatment centers and insurance coverage in your area. Early referral for evaluation is appropriate.