pediatric

Pediatrics is the branch of medicine devoted to the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. Pediatric practice covers preventive care, growth and development monitoring, vaccination, nutrition, and health education, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of acute illnesses and chronic conditions. In most countries the pediatric age range extends from birth through late adolescence, often up to 18 years, with some guidelines extending care to 21 for young adults.

Physicians who practice pediatrics, pediatricians, complete medical school and a residency in pediatrics. Many pediatricians pursue further training in subspecialties through fellowships, such as neonatology, pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, infectious disease, neurology, pulmonology, rheumatology, dermatology, and medical genetics. Neonatology concentrates on newborns, especially those who are premature or critically ill, while general pediatrics often serves as the primary care entry point for children and adolescents in clinics and hospital settings.

Pediatric care emphasizes prevention, early detection of developmental issues, and management of both acute illnesses and chronic diseases within the context of family and social environments. Public health measures, vaccination programs, and growth and development screening are central components. Professional guidance and standards are provided by organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, alongside national health services. In many health systems, pediatric care is delivered within primary care, hospital-based services, or specialist centers, with coordination across different levels of care to support lifelong health starting in childhood.