This Week in Pediatrics
Contemporary Pediatrics – Clinical News & Pediatrician Practice Tips
Adverse childhood experiences may affect pediatric skin disease risk and outcomes, but researchers say evidence remains limited. ... Scholar Rock says apitegromab's SMA BLA stays on track for its September 30, 2026, PDUFA date after dropping ...
Pediatric Antibiotic Resistance Rising Worldwide
Global pediatric data suggest resistance to last-line antibiotics is climbing fast, with ICU and sepsis cases showing some of the steepest increases.
Telemedicine Remains Relevant in Pediatric Care
“[The] findings highlight the continued importance of TM [telemedicine] as a tool within primary care and the value of investigating the impact of TM use on health outcomes, including access to care,” the authors of the study wrote. The study was led by Alexander G. Fiks, MD, MSC...
Research of the Day
Duration of Breastfeeding and Childhood Obesity Risk: Meta-Analysis of 150 Cohort Studies
This comprehensive meta-analysis synthesized data from 150 cohort studies involving over 2.5 million children to examine the relationship between breastfeeding duration and obesity risk. Children breastfed for 6+ months showed a 22% reduction in obesity risk at ages 5-10 compared to never-breastfed children.
Key findings: (1) Each additional month of breastfeeding associated with 3% lower obesity odds; (2) Effects persisted after adjusting for socioeconomic status and maternal BMI; (3) Exclusive breastfeeding showed stronger effects than mixed feeding.
These findings strengthen breastfeeding support recommendations. Counsel expectant parents on breastfeeding benefits, ensure access to lactation support, and address barriers to continued breastfeeding.
Popular Beliefs
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.
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.
ADD/ADHD is caused by poor parenting or too much sugar
What the evidence shows: ADHD has strong genetic and neurobiological components. While environment can influence symptom severity, poor parenting and diet do not cause ADHD. Evidence-based treatments include behavioral therapy and, when appropriate, medication. Blaming parents is harmful and delays effective intervention.
Behaviors
Media Multitasking and Attention in Adolescents
This study of 600 high school students examined the relationship between media multitasking (using multiple screens simultaneously) and attention abilities. Heavy media multitaskers showed reduced ability to filter irrelevant information.
Key findings: (1) Heavy multitaskers had 15% more attention lapses in class; (2) Greater difficulty switching between tasks effectively; (3) Sleep quality mediated some of the relationship.
Counsel adolescents (and parents) on single-tasking for homework. Having phone notifications off and single-device focus improves learning efficiency and quality.
Genetics
Newborn Screening: Recommended Uniform Screening Panel Updates
The Recommended Uniform Screening Panel (RUSP) has been updated to include three additional conditions: Pompe disease, MPS I, and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. States are implementing expanded screening with early treatment implications.
Key findings: (1) Early identification allows treatment before symptom onset; (2) Cost-effectiveness demonstrated for new conditions; (3) Primary care providers need to understand screening results and follow-up.
Know your state's newborn screening panel. Ensure timely follow-up of abnormal screens. Early treatment dramatically improves outcomes for many of these conditions.