This Week in Pediatrics
JAMA Pediatrics – The Science of Child and Adolescent Health
Explore the latest in child health including food and nutrition, Kawasaki disease and C difficile, effects of media, and more. Formerly Archives of
What's new in pediatrics
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Contemporary Pediatrics – Clinical News & Pediatrician Practice Tips
Chronic skin conditions linked to bullying, depression, and suicide risk in children, adolescents · Chronic pediatric skin disorders cause significant stigma, bullying, depression, and suicide risk—conditions often underrecognized and ...
Research of the Day
Return to Sport After Pediatric Concussion: Age-Modified Protocols
This multi-site study evaluated age-specific return-to-sport protocols following concussion in 2,500 young athletes ages 8-18. Younger children required longer recovery periods, challenging one-size-fits-all protocols.
Key findings: (1) Median recovery 21 days for ages 8-12 vs 14 days for teens; (2) Early return to sport associated with prolonged symptoms; (3) Symptom-limited activity during recovery improved outcomes.
Use age-appropriate return protocols. Younger athletes need more conservative management. Emphasize symptom-limited activity and complete recovery before returning to full sport.
Popular Beliefs
Chocolate causes acne
What the evidence shows: The relationship between diet and acne is complex. Some studies suggest high-glycemic diets and dairy may worsen acne, but chocolate specifically has not been definitively proven to cause breakouts. Individual responses vary—advise patients to observe their own triggers.
Sugar makes children hyperactive
What the evidence shows: Multiple double-blind, placebo-controlled studies have found no significant effect of sugar on behavior or cognitive performance in children, even in those reportedly 'sensitive' to sugar. The perceived hyperactivity is often due to the context (parties, holidays) or parental expectations. However, limiting added sugars remains important for dental health and nutrition.
Vaccines cause autism
What the evidence shows: This thoroughly debunked claim originated from a fraudulent 1998 study. Multiple large-scale studies involving millions of children have found no association between vaccines and autism. The original study was retracted and its author lost his medical license. Vaccines are safe and essential.
Behaviors
Sleep Schedule Consistency and ADHD Symptoms: Intervention Study
This intervention study examined whether consistent sleep schedules improved ADHD symptoms in 150 children ages 6-12. Families implemented strict bed/wake times for 8 weeks while tracking symptoms and sleep.
Key findings: (1) Consistent sleep reduced inattention symptoms by 25%; (2) Bedtime resistance decreased significantly; (3) Effects comparable to some medication responses. Weekend sleep consistency was particularly important.
Before escalating ADHD treatment, optimize sleep hygiene. Consistent bed/wake times (including weekends) can meaningfully improve symptoms. This is a low-risk intervention all families can implement.
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.