The American Society of Hematology (ASH) held its annual meeting in December 2022 in New Orleans, LA.
In the United States, more than half of children and adolescents experience one or more exposures to early life stress (ELS), such as household dysfunction, abuse, neglect and economic hardship. Recent analysis has shown that $748 billion annually in healthcare burdens, in Europe and North America, can be attributed to ELS effects.
Chile is a country of contrasts. Situated in a long, narrow stretch of land between vast mountain ranges and the Pacific Ocean, Chile is home to the temperate rainforests of Patagonia and the arid deserts of the Atacama to the north. Near the center of the country is its capital, Santiago, where we lived and worked last month. Going into the rotation, we expected to learn about all of the contrasts between healthcare in Chile and the United States. However, we ended up learning that the two countries are more similar than we initially suspected.
For many Muslims, tonight (depending on the sighting of the moon) begins the celebration of Eid-al-Fitr or the end of the Holy month of fasting (Ramadan). This is a time for celebrating with family and friends. Eid al-Fitr is also known as "Sweet Eid" and the "Festival of Sweets," because of the sweet treats enjoyed on this holiday. Let us all hope for an end to strife, both religious and secular, justice and respect for ALL people, at home and abroad. Eid Mubarak.
Mitch
On behalf of the Department of Pediatrics, we appreciate the significant contributions of all of our Administrative Professionals. You are key to our success and central to our mission by enabling us to take care of the children of Alabama. We honor you on April 26, but are thankful for you each and every day of the year.
DOP Staff Wellness and Recognition Committee
The Pediatric Scholarship Day Committee is thrilled to say that the 8th annual event was a great success!
David Kimberlin, M.D., professor in the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, has been inducted into the Association of American Physicians (AAP). The AAP is an honorary medical society that recognizes physicians who make outstanding contributions to basic and translational biomedical research.
The UAB Department of Pediatrics and Children’s of Alabama participated in Birmingham’s inaugural Black Family Wellness Expo, as part of a National Impact Day of Service of the Links Incorporated.
One of our PGY 3 residents, Dr. Ashley Mack, spent a month in Kijabe, Africa with a former resident of ours, Dr. Arianna Shirk (Class of 2010). Please see Ashley’s wonderful reflection on her time spent in Kijabe!
April is Autism Awareness Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) refers to a complex set of developmental disabilities causing difficulties with social interaction, communication and behavior. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), autism is increasing in prevalence and now affects an estimated 1 in 36 children in the U.S based on 2020 surveillance data.