This Week in Pediatrics
Physician-Scientist Livia Veress Takes Dual Leadership Role in Pediatric
News Source: Harold Sullivan. (October 13, 2026). Physician-Scientist Livia Veress Takes Dual Leadership Role in Pediatric Medicine at Mount Sinai.
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) 2026 National Conference
Medscape Medical NewsOctober 6, 2026 · AAP 2025 · AAP 2024 · AAP 2023 · Pediatric Dermatology · Pediatrics/Neonatal Care Nursing ·
Akron Children's ranked among world's best pediatric hospitals by Newsweek
8, 2026, 12:26 p.m. ET · Akron Children's Hospital was ranked as the 29th best pediatric hospital in the world by Newsweek. Cleveland Clinic Children's was also recognized, placing 53rd in the same pediatric rankings.
Research of the Day
Probiotics for Infantile Colic: Randomized Controlled Trial of L. reuteri
This double-blind RCT enrolled 400 breastfed infants with colic to evaluate Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation. Infants receiving the probiotic showed significantly reduced crying time compared to placebo, with effects observed within 7 days of treatment initiation.
Key findings: (1) Mean crying time reduced by 51 minutes/day at 21 days; (2) 73% of treatment group had crying <3 hours/day vs 36% placebo; (3) No adverse events reported. Effect was specific to breastfed infants.
L. reuteri may be considered for breastfed infants with colic after excluding other causes. This is one of several evidence-based interventions alongside feeding adjustments, carrying techniques, and parental support.
Popular Beliefs
Shaving makes hair grow back thicker and darker
What the evidence shows: Shaving removes hair at the skin surface, leaving a blunt tip that may feel coarser as it grows out. However, it does not affect hair thickness, color, or growth rate. This is an optical illusion from the blunt vs. tapered hair shaft.
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.
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
Early Pet Exposure and Immune Development: Birth Cohort Study
This birth cohort followed 1,200 children from birth to age 5, comparing immune development and allergy rates in homes with and without pets. Early pet exposure was associated with reduced allergy risk and altered gut microbiome.
Key findings: (1) 30% lower allergic sensitization with dog exposure in first year; (2) Cat exposure showed similar but smaller effects; (3) Microbiome diversity increased in pet-exposed children.
Reassure families that pet exposure during infancy may actually protect against allergies. For families without pets, don't specifically recommend getting one, but dispel the myth that pets must be removed to prevent allergies.
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.