This Week in Pediatrics
Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics
The Unseen Toll of Gun Violence: ... and Untold Stories · Pediatrics Blog · | October 09 2026 · Narrow-Spectrum Antibiotics in Children With Medical Complexity ·...
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
UC Davis Children’s Hospital Latest News | UC Davis Health
The UC Davis Pediatric Intensive Care Unit held a bootcamp to train senior pediatric critical care fellows from across the country.Read More ... Registration is now open for the 2026 NorCal AIDSCycle, which raises funds for the Pediatric Infectious Disease Clinic at UC Davis Chil...
Research of the Day
Inhaled Corticosteroid Adherence in Minority Children: Community Health Worker Intervention
This RCT evaluated community health worker (CHW) home visits to improve inhaled corticosteroid adherence in 400 minority children with persistent asthma. CHW intervention nearly doubled medication adherence rates.
Key findings: (1) Adherence improved from 45% to 82% in intervention group; (2) 50% reduction in asthma-related ED visits; (3) Culturally tailored education more effective than standard approach.
Consider CHW programs or similar support for families struggling with asthma medication adherence. Address social determinants and provide culturally appropriate education.
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.
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.
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.
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
Gene Therapy for Congenital Hearing Loss: Breakthrough Trial
First successful gene therapy trial for DFNB9 deafness (otoferlin deficiency) shows restoration of hearing in children with previously profound hearing loss. Treated children gained ability to hear speech without cochlear implants.
Key findings: (1) 8 of 10 children gained functional hearing; (2) Benefit sustained at 18-month follow-up; (3) Earlier treatment showed better outcomes.
Genetic forms of deafness may become treatable. This changes the conversation with families about hearing loss prognosis. Genetic testing for hearing loss is increasingly important for treatment planning.