Paediatrics is a medical specialty focused on the health, development, and diseases of infants, children, and adolescents from birth up to 18 years of age. Pediatricians provide comprehensive care, including preventive health, immunizations, growth monitoring, and treatment of acute and chronic illnesses.
The field covers a wide range of conditions such as respiratory infections, allergies, congenital anomalies, developmental disorders, nutritional issues, and pediatric cancers. It also emphasizes early detection of developmental delays and behavioral issues to ensure optimal growth and well-being.
Pediatric care involves family-centered approaches, recognizing the importance of the child’s environment and emotional health. Diagnostic tools include physical examinations, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and specialized assessments like hearing and vision screening.
Recent advances in paediatrics include improved neonatal intensive care, genetic testing, and pediatric subspecialties like pediatric cardiology, neurology, and endocrinology. Vaccination programs have significantly reduced the incidence of many infectious diseases.
Preventive care, health education, and early intervention are core to pediatric practice, aiming to ensure healthy growth and development. Pediatricians work closely with parents, schools, and other healthcare providers to promote lifelong health and well-being for children.
