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
Inside the 2026 U.S. News Best Children’s Hospital Rankings | Health Care | U.S. News
This year’s rankings evaluated 114 children’s hospitals based on clinical data from those hospitals and survey responses from thousands of pediatric specialists. The HoT Bulletin spoke with Jennifer Winston, senior health data scientist for U.S.
Pediatric Lung Transplantation Enters a New Era
New CFTR modulators are reshaping pediatric lung transplantation, forcing clinicians to rethink when children should be referred and listed.
Research of the Day
Adolescent Vaping Cessation: Randomized Trial of Behavioral Interventions
This RCT compared three vaping cessation approaches in 1,200 adolescents: text-based support, in-person counseling, and combined intervention. Combined approach showed highest quit rates at 6-month follow-up.
Key findings: (1) 28% quit rate with combined intervention vs 15% text-only; (2) Nicotine dependence level predicted quit success; (3) Most adolescents wanted to quit but lacked support resources.
Screen for vaping at every adolescent visit. Offer cessation resources proactively—most teens want to quit. Combine counseling with digital support for best outcomes.
Popular Beliefs
Children outgrow ADHD
What the evidence shows: While symptoms often change with age, approximately 60% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms into adulthood. Hyperactivity typically decreases, but inattention and impulsivity often persist. Ongoing monitoring and treatment adjustment is important across the lifespan.
Too many vaccines overwhelm a child's immune system
What the evidence shows: Children's immune systems handle vastly more antigens daily from the environment than from vaccines. Today's vaccines contain far fewer antigens than older versions despite protecting against more diseases. Studies show no increased infection rates in vaccinated children—vaccines strengthen, not weaken, immunity.
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.
Behaviors
Physical Activity and Academic Achievement: School-Based Intervention Study
This cluster RCT examined whether increasing physical activity during the school day improved academic outcomes in 3,500 elementary students. Schools were randomized to add 30 minutes of daily activity or continue standard curriculum.
Key findings: (1) Intervention students showed 15% improvement in reading scores; (2) Math scores improved 8%; (3) On-task behavior increased and disruptive behavior decreased. Benefits were greatest for students with ADHD symptoms.
Advocate for physical activity in schools—it enhances rather than detracts from learning. Counsel families on the importance of daily active play for cognitive development, not just physical health.
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.