pediátria

Pediátria is the medical specialty focused on the health of infants, children, and adolescents, from birth through the end of adolescence. The field emphasizes growth, development, disease prevention, and the management of acute and chronic conditions. It includes preventive care, early detection of developmental issues, vaccination, nutrition, and guidance for families and caregivers.

Pediatricians obtain a medical degree and complete specialized training in pediatrics through residency programs; many countries require board certification to practice independently and to subspecialize (for example, neonatology, pediatric cardiology, pediatric oncology, pediatric endocrinology, and pediatric critical care).

Care is delivered in hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community health centers. Pediatric practice often involves collaboration with parents, schools, and other health professionals to address medical, developmental, and social needs. The field emphasizes family-centered care and the adaptation of treatment to the ecological and social context of each child.

A key aspect of pediátria is public health: immunization programs, newborn screening, nutrition, injury prevention, and the management of infectious and non-communicable diseases at the population level. The discipline emerged in the 19th century, and Abraham Jacobi is frequently cited as a founder of modern pediatrics.