Kids' Health RSS

Vital Signs, Binge Drinking: Risks for Women and Girls [CDC Kids' Health]

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 09:43:00 EST

About 1 in 8 women aged 18 years and older and 1 in 5 high school girls binge drink. Binge drinking increases the chances of breast cancer, heart disease, sexually transmitted diseases, unintended pregnancy, and many other health problems.

Reducing Teen Pregnancy in the United States [CDC Kids' Health]

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 09:03:00 EST

Teen birth rates in the United States have declined to the lowest rates seen in seven decades, yet they are still nine times higher than in most other developed countries and ethnic disparities continue to persist. Parents, educators, public health and medical professionals, and community organizations all have a role to play in reducing teen pregnancy.

Norovirus is now the leading cause of severe gastroenteritis in US children [CDC Kids' Health]

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:30:00 EST

Norovirus was responsible for nearly 1 million pediatric medical care visits for 2009 and 2010 in the United States. About 50 percent of the medical care visits due to norovirus infections were among children aged 6 to 18 months. Infants and 1-year-old children were more likely to be hospitalized than older children.

Rate of Traumatic Brain Injury Related Deaths Among Persons Aged 0-19 Years, by Age Group-National Vital Statistics System, United States, 1999-2010 [CDC Kids' Health]

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 13:06:00 EST

From 1999 to 2010, the rate of TBI-related deaths among youths aged 15–19 years decreased by nearly half, from 23.0 per 100,000 in 1999 to 11.7 in 2010. Rates also decreased for children aged 0–4 years, from 5.4 per 100,000 in 1999 to 4.0 in 2010, and for children and teens aged 5–14 years, from 3.7 per 100,000 in 1999 to 1.8 in 2010.

National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 2013 [CDC Kids' Health]

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 13:35:00 EST

Understand your risk of HIV infection, get educated about how HIV is spread, get tested to find out your status, and get treated if you are living with HIV.

Next Grand Rounds Presentation: Teen Pregnancy [CDC Kids' Health]

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 12:20:00 EST

The Public Health Grand Rounds is a monthly webcast created to foster discussion on major public health issues. The next Grand Rounds presentation will be on teen pregnancy, and will be held on Tuesday, March 19.

Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 years and Adults Aged 19 Years and Older — United States, 2013 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:00:00 EST

Each year, recommendations for routine use of vaccines in children, adolescents, and adults in the United States are developed by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). This year, for the first time, recommended immunization schedules for persons aged 0 through 18 years and adults aged 19 years and older are being published together.

Vital Signs: Binge Drinking Among Women and High School Girls - United States, 2011 [CDC Kids' Health]

Fri, 11 Jan 2013 09:34:00 EST

Binge drinking is reported by one in eight U.S. adult women and one in five high school girls. Women who binge drink tend to do so frequently and with high intensity. Most high school girls who reported current alcohol use also reported binge drinking.

2013 Healthy Living Calendars [CDC Kids' Health]

Fri, 28 Dec 2012 13:37:00 EST

Healthy Living calendars promote daily tips to use for a safer and healthier life. Calendars are now available for download.

12 Health and Safety Tips for the Holidays [CDC Kids' Health]

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 13:09:00 EST

Give the gift of health and safety to yourself and others by following these holiday tips. You can sing along to The 12 Ways to Health Holiday Song, listen to a holiday health podcast, and send the song to your friends and family in a holiday health-e-card!

HIV Among Youth: Protecting a Generation [CDC Kids' Health]

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 14:00:00 EST

In commemoration of World AIDS Day (Dec. 1), Vital Signs looks at the alarming impact of HIV on youth, ages 13-24, and underscores the importance of HIV prevention, testing, and treatment for youth.

Children’s Environmental Health [CDC Kids' Health]

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 12:27:00 EST

Use the Tracking Network to learn how the environment might be affecting children’s health.

Children, the Flu, and the Flu Vaccine [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:25:00 EST

Influenza (“the flu”) is more dangerous than the common cold for children. Each year, many children get sick with seasonal influenza.

Help Your Child Manage Diabetes at School [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 10:24:00 EST

Make a plan to help your child manage diabetes at school. Start by meeting with school staff and by making sure your child has the necessary supplies for routine care and blood sugar emergencies.

Vital Signs: Drinking and Driving Among High School Students, Equal to or Less Than 16 Years of Age — United States, 1991–2011 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 09:24:00 EST

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teens aged 16–19 years in the United States. The findings in this report indicate that substantial progress has been made during the past 2 decades to reduce drinking and driving among teens. However, the findings point to the need to further reduce teen access to alcohol and reduce opportunities to drink and drive.

World Heart Day 2012: Women and Children at Risk [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 28 Sep 2012 12:57:00 EST

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. This year, World Heart Day shines a spotlight on those who often go unnoticed when it comes to heart disease: women and children.

Neonatal Herpes Simplex Virus Infection Following Jewish Ritual Circumcisions that Included Direct Orogenital Suction — New York City, 2000–2011[CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 15:22:00 EST

During November 2000–December 2011, a total of 11 newborn males had laboratory-confirmed Herpes simplex virus infection (HSV) in the weeks following out-of-hospital Jewish ritual circumcision, investigators from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) learned. HSV infection commonly causes "cold sores" (HSV type 1 [HSV-1]) and genital herpes (HSV-1 or HSV type 2 [HSV-2]); HSV infection in newborns can result in death or permanent disability.

National, State, and Local Area Vaccination Coverage Among Children Aged 19–35 Months — United States, 2011 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 12:54:00 EST

This report describes national, state, and selected local area vaccination coverage by age 19–35 months for children born during January 2008–May 2010, based on 2011 National Immunization Survey (NIS) results. High vaccination coverage in children by age 2 years has resulted in historically low levels of most vaccine-preventable diseases in the United States.

Prevalence and Timing of Oral Sex withOpposite-sex Partners Among Females and MalesAged 15–24 Years: United States, 2007–2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 16:29:00 EST

This report presents data on the prevalence of oral sex with opposite-sex partners and the timing of first oral sex relative to first vaginal intercourse among females and males aged 15–24 based on the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG) data from 2007–2010.

Gradual Drop in Youth Tobacco Use Continues, but Significant Problem Areas Remain [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 15:26:00 EST

Tobacco use among American middle school and high school students showed a slow decline from 2000 to 2011. But when compared with other long-term studies, such as the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, the steep rate of decline from 1997 to 2003 has slowed noticeably.

Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance — United States, 2011 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 15:26:00 EST

Results from the 2011 national YRBS indicated that many high school students are engaged in priority health-risk behaviors associated with the leading causes of death among persons aged 10–24 years in the United States. Variations were observed in many health-risk behaviors by sex, race/ethnicity, and grade.

June is National Men's Health Month [CDC Kids' Health]

Wed, 13 Jun 2012 07:32:00 EST

Improving men's health starts at home with individuals and families taking steps to live safer and healthier lives. There are numerous things you can do every day to improve your health and stay healthy. Many of which don't take a lot of time and cost very little.

U.S. High School Students Improve Motor Vehicle-related Health Behaviors

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 14:05:00 EST

U.S. high school students have shown significant progress over the past two decades in improving many health-risk behaviors associated with the leading cause of death among youth-motor vehicle crashes-according to the 2011 National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS).

CDC Estimates 1 in 88 Children in United States Has Been Identified as Having an Autism Spectrum Disorder [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 13:40:00 EST

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 88 children in the United States has been identified as having an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) according to a new study that looked at data from 14 communities. Autism spectrum disorders are almost five times more common among boys than girls – with 1 in 54 boys identified.

Updated HPV Vaccine (Gardasil®) What You Need to Know [CDC, Kids' Health]

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 13:01:00 EST

This updated information sheet answers eight questions: what is HPV, why get vaccinated, who should get this HPV vaccine and when, why should some people not get the vaccine or wait, what are the risks from this vaccine, what if there is a moderate or severe reaction, what is the national vaccine injury compensation program, and how can I learn more.

Measles: Make Sure Your child is Fully Immunized [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:38:00 EST

One of the best ways to protect children from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is to vaccinate them on time. Check your child's medical records to see if he or she is up to date on vaccinations.

Take Charge. Take the Test. [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 15:25:00 EST

In conjunction with National Women’s and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, CDC will launch “Take Charge. Take the Test” – the latest Act Against AIDS campaign – in ten key metro areas (Houston, Broward/Ft. Lauderdale, Chicago, Atlanta, New Orleans, Cleveland, Philadelphia and Maryland). Take Charge. Take the Test will encourage HIV testing and awareness among African American women, particularly among women aged 18-34.

Prevent Teen Dating Violence [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 02 Mar 2012 14:48:00 EST

Dating violence can happen to any teen, anytime, anywhere. But it doesn't have to happen at all. Learn how to prevent teen dating violence with CDC's online resources.

Learn the Facts About Teen Pregnancy [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 03 Feb 2012 13:28:00 EST

Take advantage of CDC social media tools to promote your teen pregnancy prevention efforts. Teens and parents can also help prevent teen pregnancy by being informed and talking with each other about sex, birth control, and relationships.

Child Ause and Neglect Cost the United States $124 billion [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:10:00 EST

The total lifetime estimated financial costs associated with just one year of confirmed cases of child maltreatment (physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse and neglect) is approximately $124 billion, according to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, published in Child Abuse and Neglect, The International Journal.

Take Concussions Out of Play: Learn to Prevent, Recognize, and Respond to Concussions [CDC, Kids' Health]

Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:40:00 EST

CDC encourages you to take this opportunity to talk with your coaches, parents, athletes, and others about concussion in sports and the steps to take to help prevent, recognize, and respond to this serious injury.

Addition of History of Intussusception as a Contraindication for Rotavirus Vaccination [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:23:00 EST

CDC is updating its contraindications for rotavirus vaccine. Rotavirus vaccination is now contraindicated for 1) infants with a history of severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of rotavirus vaccine or exposure to a vaccine component, 2) infants diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency, and 3) infants with a history of intussusception.

Are You A Teen Worker? [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:31:00 EST

Every 9 minutes, a U.S. teen gets hurt on the job. This guide gives you the facts you need to stay safe and healthy at work. It also shows you what jobs you can (and can’t do), and it teaches you about your rights and responsibilities as a young worker.

ACIP Recommends All 11-12 Year-Old Males Get Vaccinated Against HPV [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:49:00 EST

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices approved recommendations for routine vaccination of males 11 or 12 years old with 3-doses of HPV4 to protect against Human Papilloma Virus.

Childhood Obesity Demonstration Project [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 13:07:00 EST

CDC recently announced funding to support a four year Childhood Obesity Demonstration Project, which will build on existing community efforts that focus on improving children’s nutrition and physical activity in the places where they live, learn and play. The aim of the project is to identify effective health care and community strategies to support children’s healthy eating and active living and help combat childhood obesity.

Twelve Health and Safety Tips for the Holidays [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 13:45:00 EST

Percentage of Children Aged <= 17 Years Who did Not Receive a Well-child Checkup in the Past 12 Months, by Health Insurance Status and Age Group – National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2006-2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 25 Nov 2011 08:01:00 EST

The percentage of children aged <=17 years who did not receive a well-child checkup was two to three times higher for children with no health insurance coverage compared with children with public or private coverage.

Healthy Living Calendars [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 13:22:00 EST

2012 Healthy Living Calendars are here! Take a moment to view these one-page calendars that promote taking simple steps for a safe and healthy life.

Get Smart About Antibiotics Week, November 14 - 20, 2011 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:59:00 EST

Improving antibiotic selection and use has many important benefits, including better infection cure rates, fewer side effects, and reduced antibiotic resistance. Appropriate antibiotic use is a key strategy to prevent antibiotic resistance and preserve the effectiveness of antibiotics.

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 23-29, 2011 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 16:56:00 EST

Lead poisoning is entirely preventable. The key is stopping children from coming into contact with lead and treating children who have been poisoned by lead. Learn more about preventing childhood lead exposure.

Nutrition, Physical Activity and Obesity [CDC, Kids’ Health]

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 16:18:00 EST

Each day, the nation's nearly 133,000 schools provide an opportunity for 55 million students to learn about health and develop the skills that promote healthy behaviors. Schools can create environments that are supportive of students' efforts to eat healthily and be active by implementing policies and practices that support healthy eating and regular physical activity.

Insufficient Sleep Among High School Students Associated With a Variety of Health-Risk Behaviors [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 12:20:00 EST

Almost 70 percent of high school students are not getting the recommended hours of sleep on school nights, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention published online by Preventive Medicine. Insufficient sleep is associated with a variety of health-risk behaviors, including physical inactivity, drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, fighting, and being sexually active.

Nonfatal Traumatic Brain Injuries Related to Sports and Recreation Activities Among Persons Aged < =19 Years – United States, 2001-2009 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:15:00 EST

During 2001-2009, an estimated 2,651,581 children aged < =19 years were treated annually for sports and recreation-related injuries. By increasing awareness of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) risks from sports and recreation, employing proper technique and protective equipment, and quickly responding to injuries, the incidence, severity, and long-term negative health effects of TBIs among children and adolescents can be reduced.

Mortality From Congenital Heart Defects [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 23 Sep 2011 17:39:00 EST

Congenital heart defects are a major cause of infant death. As medical care and treatment have advanced, the rate of death due to congenital heart defects has been declining among infants and children.

CDC’s Sudden Unexpected Infant Death Initiative [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:23:00 EST

CDC scientists are collaborating with many partners, including states, university researchers, and partners in health care to understand why preterm births occur and what can be done to help prevent them. Learn more about CDC preterm birth research activities.

Trends in In-Hospital Newborn Male Circumcision-United States, 1999-2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 02 Sep 2011 11:05:00 EST

In the United States, rates of in-hospital newborn male circumcision (NMC) increased from 48.3% during 1988-1991 to 61.1% during 1997-2000. The publication of three recent studies showing that circumcision of adult, African, heterosexual men reduces their risk for acquiring human immunodeficiency virus infection and other sexually transmitted infections has stimulated interest in the practice of routine NMC and the benefits it might confer for HIV prevention.

Cerebral Palsy Occurrence in the US [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 16:14:00 EST

The Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, a multi-site surveillance program funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recently released a report on the prevalence (occurrence) and features of Cerebral Palsy (CP) in 8-year-old children living in four areas of the United States in 2006. This report provides estimates of co-occurring developmental disabilities, gross motor function, walking ability among children with CP, and presents updated CP prevalence data.

Teen birth rates lowest in U.S. history, but remain significantly higher than those in most industrialized nations [CDC, Kid's Health]

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 15:42:00 EST

After declining 2% between 2007 and 2008, birth rates for 15- to 19-year-olds decreased again between 2008 and 2009 for all races and for Hispanics. However, teen birth rates in the U.S. remain up to nine times higher than in most other developed nations.

Helping Your Child Manage Diabetes at School [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 11:51:00 EST

Make a plan to help your child manage diabetes at school. Start by meeting with school staff and by making sure your child has the necessary supplies for routine care and blood sugar emergencies.

Ocular Toxocariasis-United States, 2009-2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:02:00 EST

Although ocular toxocariasis (OT) is uncommon, it most often affects young children and can cause debilitating ophthalmologic disease, including blindness. Good hygiene practices, timely disposal of pet feces, and routine deworming of pets are strategies necessary to reduce OT in humans.

Physical Activity Levels of High School Students---United States, 2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 15:14:00 EST

Healthy People 2020 (HP 2020), released in December 2010, outlines numerous public health objectives, including objectives for youth physical activity participation. To determine the proportion of U.S. youths who meet these HP 2020 objectives, CDC analyzed data from the 2010 National Youth Physical Activity and Nutrition Study (NYPANS). This report summarizes the results of that analysis, which indicated that among students nationwide in grades 9--12, 15.3% met the aerobic objective, 51.0% met the muscle-strengthening objective, and 12.2% met the objective for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.

Beverage Consumption Among High School Students -- United States, 2010 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 16:34:00 EST

Sugar drinks or sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) are the largest source of added sugars in the diet of U.S. youths, and the increased caloric intake resulting from these beverages is one factor contributing to the prevalence of obesity among adolescents in the United States. Families, schools, and youth-oriented institutions should limit SSBs among all adolescents while ensuring their access to more healthful beverages. Targeted efforts are especially needed to reduce consumption of SSBs among male and black adolescents.

Keep Kids' Safe in the Summer [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 16 Jun 2011 15:20:00 EST

Water, bugs, and the sun, are a few of the things kids experience more of in the summertime. For parents and others, extra vigilance is required to prevent injury and keep kids safe and healthy.

Sexual Identity, Sex of Sexual Contacts, and Health-Risk Behaviors Among Students in Grades 9—12---Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, Selected Sites, United States, 2001 - 2009 [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 08:56:00 EST

Sexual minority youths are youths who identify themselves as gay or lesbian, bisexual, or unsure of their sexual identity or youths who have only had sexual contact with persons of the same sex or with both sexes. This report summarizes results from YRBSs conducted during 2001--2009 in seven states and six large urban school districts that included questions on sexual identity (i.e., heterosexual, gay or lesbian, bisexual, or unsure), sex of sexual contacts (i.e., same sex only, opposite sex only, or both sexes), or both of these variables.

Text4baby for Pregnant Women and New Moms [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 26 May 2011 16:35:00 EST

Text4baby is a service that provides pregnant women and new moms with free text messages each week on pregnancy and baby care health tips. These messages are timed to a woman's due date or the baby's date of birth.

Asthma in the U.S. [CDC, Kids' Health]

Fri, 20 May 2011 16:09:00 EST

Women were more likely than men and boys more likely than girls to have asthma. About 1 in 10 children (10%) had asthma and 1 in 12 adults (8%) had asthma in 2009. People with asthma can prevent asthma attacks if they are taught to use inhaled corticosteroids and other prescribed daily long-term control medicines correctly and to avoid asthma triggers. Triggers can include tobacco smoke, mold, outdoor air pollution, and colds and flu.

Teen Pregnancy: The Importance of Prevention [CDC, Kids' Health]

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 16:39:00 EST

During the past 20 years, the rate of teen girls having children has dropped by about 40%, but approximately 1,100 teen girls still give birth every day. Learn what you can do to reduce teen pregnancy.

Heads Up: Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 08:12:00 EST

Nearly all victims of SBS suffer serious health consequences and at least one of every four babies who are violently shaken dies from this form of child maltreatment. You can play a key role in reinforcing prevention through helping people understand the dangers of violently shaking a baby, the risk factors and the triggers for it, and ways to lessen the load on stressed out parents and caregivers.

Protect Your Child against Rotavirus Disease

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 15:46:00 EST

Rotavirus can cause severe diarrhea, mostly in babies and young children. The good news is that there are vaccines to help prevent this disease.

Text4baby for Pregnant Women and New Moms

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 15:20:00 EST

Talk to Teens about Healthy Relationships

Thu, 17 Mar 2011 17:01:00 EST

Unfortunately, when healthy relationship skills aren't formed, some young people find themselves in abusive relationships that are marked by frustration, anger, low self-esteem, and even physical injury. Kids who report being physically hurt by a boyfriend or girlfriend in the past year are more likely to report unhealthy behaviors like binge drinking, suicide attempts, and physical fighting. Find out what can be done.

Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years - United States, 2011

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 17:04:00 EST

These schedules summarize recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children aged 18 years and younger and include recommendations in effect as of December 21, 2010.

National Women & Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Wed, 09 Mar 2011 12:53:00 EST

Thursday, March 10 is National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, a day to recognize the special risks HIV/AIDS poses for women and girls, and to raise awareness of the disease's increasing impact on them. Learn what you can do.

Recommended Immunization Schedules for Persons Aged 0 Through 18 Years ---United States, 2011

Thu, 10 Feb 2011 15:19:00 EST

Each year, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) publishes immunization schedules for persons aged 0 through 18 years. These schedules summarize recommendations for currently licensed vaccines for children aged 18 years and younger and include recommendations in effect as of December 21, 2010.

Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, February 7 – 14, 2011

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 14:21:00 EST

Congenital heart defects affect nearly 1% of newborns in the United States and are a leading cause of infant mortality. Congenital Heart Defect Awareness Week, held February 7--14 this year, is an annual observance to promote awareness and education about these defects. Health-care providers should encourage their patients who are thinking about becoming pregnant to maintain a healthy weight, control diagnosed diabetes, and quit smoking.

Progress in Immunization Information Systems – United States, 2009

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 11:47:00 EST

An immunization information system (IIS) is a confidential, computerized, population-based system that collects and consolidates vaccination data from vaccine providers and provides tools for designing and sustaining effective immunization strategies at the provider and program levels. In 2010, the Task Force on Community Preventive Services recommended that immunization information systems be used to increase vaccination coverage after showing strong evidence of their effectiveness.

January is National Birth Defects Prevention Month

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 12:08:00 EST

One of every 33 babies is born with a birth defect. Birth defects are a leading cause of infant deaths, accounting for about one of every five infant deaths. In addition, babies born with birth defects have a greater chance of illness and long term disability than babies without birth defects. There are things a woman can do before and during pregnancy to increase her chance of having a healthy baby: see a health professional regularly, take 400 mcg of folic acid every day—starting at least one month before getting pregnant, don’t drink alcohol, smoke, or use illicit drugs, and get medical conditions like diabetes under control before getting pregnant.

Teen Birth Rate Hit Record Low in 2009

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 07:05:00 EST

This report presents preliminary data for 2009 on births in the United States. The birth rate for US teenagers 15-19 fell 6 percent to 39.1 per 1,000, a record low for the Nation. Birth rates for younger and older teenagers and for Hispanic, non-Hispanic white, non-Hispanic black, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Asian or Pacific Islander teenagers all reached historic lows in 2009. [From the report Births: Preliminary Data for 2009]

Obesity and Socioeconomic Status in Children and Adolescents: United States, 2005-2008

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 07:31:00 EST

This data brief presents the most recent national data on childhood obesity and its association with poverty income ratio (PIR) and education of household head. Results are presented by sex and race and ethnicity.

Prevention of Pneumococcal Disease Among Infants and Children---Use of 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine and 13-Valen Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 13:41:00 EST

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) remains a leading cause of serious illness, including bacteremia, meningitis, and pneumonia among children and adults worldwide. This report summarizes recommendations approved by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) on February 24, 2010, for the use of PCV13 to prevent pneumococcal disease in infants and young children aged less than 6 years.

Children and Diabetes: SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study

Fri, 03 Dec 2010 08:37:00 EST

Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases among children in the United States. Reports of increasing frequency of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in youth has been among the most concerning aspects of the evolving diabetes epidemic. In response to this growing public health concern, CDC and NIH in 2000 funded the SEARCH for Diabetes in Youth Study to characterize the burden of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, along with the associated complications, the levels of care, and impact on the daily lives of children and youth in the U.S.

Get Smart About Antibiotics Week, November 15-21

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:27:00 EST

Get Smart About Antibiotics Week, November 15-21 Will antibiotics work for your children when they really need them? Did you know that more than 50% of antibiotics are prescribed unnecessarily in the office setting for viral illnesses like coughs and colds? And, that antibiotics are the most common cause of emergency department visits for adverse drug events in children? Treating viruses with antibiotics doesn’t work and it increases the likelihood of becoming ill with a resistant bacterial infection. When antibiotics fail to work, your child can have longer-lasting illnesses, more doctor visits or extended hospital stays, and may need more expensive and stronger medications that may have side effects. Learn more about appropriate antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance.

Increasing Prevalence of Parent-Reported Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Among Children-United States, 2003 and 2007

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 12:39:00 EST

This report describes results from the second administration of the National Survey of Children's Health in 2007, which indicated that the percentage of children aged 4-17 years with a parent-reported attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosis (ever) increased from 7.8% to 9.5% during 2003-2007, representing a 21.8% increase in 4 years. The findings in this report help to further characterize the substantial impact of ADHD on families.

QuickStats: Percentage of Persons Aged 15--19 Years Who Received Formal Sex Education* Before Age 18 Years, by Selected Topics --- National Survey of Family Growth, United States, 2006--2008

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 08:26:00 EST

During 2006--2008, 97% of persons aged 15--19 years received formal sex education on one or more of four topics before they were age 18 years.

Halloween the Healthy Way

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 08:31:00 EST

Don't be tricked this Halloween. Make better lifestyle choices to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

Strong Connections at School Can Lead to Healthier Choices

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:25:00 EST

Students who feel connected to their school are more likely to engage in healthy behaviors and succeed academically.

National Teen Driver Safety Week, October 17-23

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 09:21:00 EST

Parents are the key to safe teen drivers. Car crashes are the #1 killer of teens and take about 3,000 young lives every year. As a parent, you should know that the main cause of teen crashes is driver inexperience. Learn about the most dangerous driving situations for your young driver—and how to avoid them.

Pink Eye: Usually Mild and Easy to Treat

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 09:30:00 EST

Pink, itchy eyes? Conjunctivitis – or pink eye – is common in adults and children. It spreads quickly and sometimes needs medical treatment, depending on the cause. Know the symptoms, get treatment if needed, and prevent its spread.

Vital Signs: Binge Drinking Among High School Students and Adults --- United States, 2009

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 10:57:00 EST

Most youths who reported current alcohol use also reported binge drinking. Prevalence among high school students was 41.8% for current alcohol use, 24.2% for binge drinking, and 60.9% for binge drinking among students who reported current alcohol use.

Use of World Health Organization and CDC Growth Charts for Children Aged0–59 Months in the United States

Tue, 28 Sep 2010 12:34:00 EST

CDC recommends that health care providers use the WHO growth standards to monitor growth for infants and children ages 0 to 2 years of age in the U.S., and use the CDC growth charts for children age 2 years and older in the U.S.

QuickStats: Percentage of Youths Aged 5--17 Years Ever Diagnosed as Having a Learning Disability and/or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD),* by Sex, National Health Interview Survey, United States, 2006--2009

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 11:00:00 EST

Among youths aged 5--17 years, during 2006--2009, boys were twice as likely as girls (18.2% versus 9.2%) to have been diagnosed with either a learning disability or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

National Child Passenger Safety Week, September 19--25, 2010

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 10:50:00 EST

Motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death and injury among children. National Child Passenger Safety Week, September 19--25, 2010, highlights the importance of ensuring that all child passengers ride in correctly installed, age- and size-appropriate restraints.

THE FLU: A Guide For Parents

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 10:45:00 EST

This two page flu guide answers questions about the flu, how to protect your child, and what to do if your child is sick.

Educating Teenagers About Sex in the United States

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 10:43:00 EST

Using data from the 2006-2008 National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG), this report examines the percentage of male and female teenagers 15-19 years who received sex education. Teenagers were asked if they received formal instruction on four topics of sex education at school, church, a community center, or some other place before they were 18 years old and the grade they were in when this first occurred. In addition, they were asked if they talked to their parents before they were 18 about topics concerning sex, birth control, STDs, and HIV/AIDS prevention.

Concussion ABCs: Learn How to Respond

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 08:09:00 EST

Learn concussion symptoms and how to respond. Know your concussion ABCs: A-Assess the situation. B-Be alert for signs and symptoms. C-Contact a health care professional.

Learn about the symptons of ADHD

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 08:00:00 EST

Attention-Deficit / Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurobehavioral disorders of childhood. Learn about the symptons and what to do if you're concerned that your child might have ADHD.

Learn how to Protect Infants and Young Children from Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 14:30:00 EST

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) is one of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in this country, with nearly 17,000 reported cases and 14 deaths occurring in 2009. It is very serious for babies, causing them to cough so much that they cannot breathe. Many infants who get pertussis catch it from family members. It is recommended that all family members and caregivers of a new infant get the adolescent/adult pertussis vaccine, or Tdap. Also, make sure your young children get their recommended 5 shots of DTaP on time.

Meningitis: Help Prevent It

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 11:29:00 EST

Meningococcal disease (a type of bacterial meningitis)is a serious, vaccine-preventable infection. The meningococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all 11-18 year olds. Kids should get this vaccine at their 11-12 year old check-up. Kids 13-18 years old who haven’t gotten the vaccine can get it any time.

Tobacco Use Among Middle and High School Students, United States, 2000-2009

Thu, 26 Aug 2010 14:35:00 EST

To monitor trends in tobacco use among middle and high school students, CDC analyzed 2000-2009 data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey (NYTS), a school-based survey that collects information on tobacco use and related behaviors and attitudes from middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) students.

Summary Health Statistics for U.S. Children: National Health Interview Survey, 2009

Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:05:00 EST

This report presents both age-adjusted and unadjusted statistics from the 2009 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) on selected health measures for children under 18 years of age, classified by sex, age, race, Hispanic origin, family structure, parent education, family income, poverty status, health insurance coverage, place of residence, region, and current health status. The topics covered are asthma, allergies, learning disability, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), prescription medication use, respondent-assessed health status, school-loss days, usual place of health care, time since last contact with a health care professional, selected measures of health care access and utilization, and dental care.

Heat Illness Among High School Athletes, United States, 2005-2009

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:05:00 EST

To examine the incidence and characteristics of heat illness among high school athletes, CDC analyzed data from the National High School Sports-Related Injury Surveillance Study for the period 2005-2009, which includes the 2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08 and 2008-09 school years.

Prevent Rabies in Children

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:04:00 EST

Rabies is a dangerous virus that is found in the saliva of animals. It can infect and kill animals and humans. Every 10 minutes, someone dies from rabies. Even though anyone can get rabies, more than half of the people who get rabies are kids under the age of 15.

Helping Kids Manage Diabetes at School

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 11:05:00 EST

Make a plan to help manage diabetes at school. Start by meeting with school staff and making sure the child has the necessary supplies for routine care and blood sugar emergencies.

College Health

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 16:14:00 EST

Learn health and safety tips for college students.

Text4baby is an HHSinnovates Winner!

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 10:27:00 EST

HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced the six winners of innovation awards in the first cycle of the HHSinnovates program. The program is aimed at supporting a “culture of innovation” in one of the federal government’s largest Departments. Text4baby is free information about pre-natal and post-natal care available to mothers via their mobile phones. Learn more about text4baby at www.text4baby.org.

Protect Children from the Sun

Mon, 02 Aug 2010 14:55:00 EST

Just a few serious sunburns can increase a child's risk of skin cancer later in life. Kids don't have to be at the pool, beach, or on vacation to get too much sun. Their skin needs protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever they're outdoors.

Design and Operation of the National Survey of Adoptive Parents

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:54:00 EST

Several agencies within the Department of Health and Human Services collaborated to develop the National Survey of Adoptive Parents (NSAP). Administered for the first time in 2007, NSAP focused on the characteristics and needs of adopted children and their adoptive families. The survey was tailored to collect data from three types of adoptive families: those who adopted through the U.S. foster care system; those who adopted internationally; and those who adopted through domestic private sources.

Make Sure Your Child Is Fully Immunized Against Measles

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 11:16:00 EST

Since a measles vaccine was licensed in 1963, measles cases in the United States have decreased by more than 99%. One of the best ways to protect children from measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases is to vaccinate them on time. Check your child's medical records to see if he or she is up to date on vaccinations.

Mortality Among Teenagers Aged 12-19 Years: United States, 1999-2006

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 16:03:00 EST

Teenage mortality is an important public health issue because the majority of deaths among teenagers are caused by external causes of injury such as accidents, homicide, and suicide. These causes of death are, by definition, preventable.

Cancer Prevention Starts in Childhood

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 15:54:00 EST

Reduce your children's risk of getting many types of cancer later in life. Start by helping them adopt a healthy lifestyle with good eating habits and plenty of exercise to keep a healthy weight. Then follow the tips in this article to help prevent specific types of cancer.

Latest Federal Statistics in Child Well-being

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:28:00 EST

This feature discusses a recent report produced by the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics, a working group of 22 Federal agencies, that collects, analyzes, and reports data on issues related to children and families.

Television and Video Viewing Time Among Children Aged 2 Years, Oregon, 2006-2007

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 11:07:00 EST

Data presented in this MMWR indicates that, on a typical day, 19.6% of children aged 2 years spent ¡Ý2 hours watching television or videos.

Cigarette Use Among High School Students, United States, 1991-2009

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 16:52:00 EST

Every 2 years, CDC analyzes data from the national Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) to evaluate trends in cigarette use among high school students in the United States. This report updates a previous report and describes results of CDC's 2010 analysis of YRBS data from 1991-2009 for three measures: ever smoked cigarettes, current cigarette use, and current frequent cigarette use.

Estimates Childhood Arthritis

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 16:03:00 EST

National and State Estimates of Childhood Arthritis and Other Rheumatic Conditions from CDC

Hepatitis A Vaccination Coverage Among U.S. Children Aged 12-23 Months

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 15:06:00 EST

To assess Hepatitis A vacinnation coverage among children 12-23 months from 2006 through 2009, CDC used data from eight Immunication Information System (IIS) sentinel sites.

Learn how to Protect Infants and Young Children from Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:07:00 EST

Pertussis (Whooping Cough) is one of the most common vaccine-preventable diseases in this country, with over 13,000 reported cases and 18 deaths occurring in 2008. It is very serious for babies, causing them to cough so much that they cannot breathe. Many infants who get pertussis catch it from family members. It is recommended that all family members and caregivers of a new infant get the adolescent/adult pertussis vaccine, or Tdap. Also, make sure your young children get their recommended 5 shots of DTaP on time.

Prevalence of Obesity Among Children and Adolescents: United States, Trends 1963-1965 Through 2007-2008

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 15:01:00 EST

Data from the 2007-2008 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), indicates that an estimated 16.9% of children and adolescents aged 2-19 years are obese. Between 1976-1980 and 1999-2000, the prevalence of obesity increased. Between 1999-2000 and 2007-2008, there was no significant trend in obesity prevalence for any age group.

Keep Kids Safe during Home Safety Month

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 14:58:00 EST

During Home Safety Month, and all year long, take some simple hands-on steps to make your home safer. You can protect the ones you love by preventing child injuries at home.

More Than 4 in 10 Teens Have Had Sex, New Report Shows

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:15:00 EST

Teenagers in the United States: Sexual Activity, Contraceptive Use, and Childbearing, National Survey of Family Growth 2006-2008 presents national estimates of sexual activity, contraceptive use, and births among males and females 15-19 years of age in the United States in 2006-2008 from the National Survey of Family Growth (NSFG).

2009 Results of YRBSS now available!

Thu, 03 Jun 2010 15:02:00 EST

The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) monitors priority health-risk behaviors and the prevalence of obesity and asthma among youth and young adults. The YRBSS includes a national school-based survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and state, territorial, tribal, and district surveys conducted by state, territorial, and local education and health agencies and tribal governments.

Check out the Health-e-Cards for Children and Teens

Tue, 25 May 2010 13:45:00 EST

CDC has a lot of free Health-e-Cards (or "electronic greeting cards")! Simply select a CDC Health-e-Card, type in an email address and name, and send a colorful greeting that encourages healthy and safe living.

Infants Screened for Hearing Loss

Tue, 25 May 2010 13:43:00 EST

Each year in the U.S., more than 12,000 babies are born with a hearing loss. Undetected hearing loss can affect a child’s ability to develop communication, language, and social skills. To help identify babies with hearing loss, all states and U.S. territories have established Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) programs.

Promoting Youth Physical Activity

Tue, 25 May 2010 13:42:00 EST

Youth gain physical and mental health benefits when they participate in regular physical activity. Learn how schools, families, and communities can help youth be physically active and stay active throughout their lives.

Have you heard the Happy Handwashing Song?

Tue, 18 May 2010 15:21:00 EST

This song (sung to the tune of Happy Birthday) encourages kids to wash their hands with soap and water to keep germs away. The song is sung twice through, the recommended length of time to wash hands. Listen and sing along!

Medical Costs of Children with Sickle Cell Disease

Wed, 12 May 2010 13:57:00 EST

Medical costs of children with SCD were $9,369 and $13,469 higher than those of children without SCD enrolled in Medicaid and private insurance, respectively. Total pediatric medical costs from SCD in the United States were estimated to be at least $335 million per year.

Take the Next Step after an ADHD Diagnosis

Tue, 11 May 2010 11:16:00 EST

Children with ADHD have trouble paying attention, may act without thinking about the consequences, and in some cases, can be overly active. Remember, while ADHD can't be cured, it can be successfully managed. In this feature article, learn about Behavior Therapy, Parent Training, Medication, ADHD in the Classroom, and other resources.

Do you know about the Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DRC)?

Thu, 06 May 2010 13:40:00 EST

The purpose of The Data Resource Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DRC) is to advance the use of public data on the health and health-related services for children, youth and families in the United States. The DRC does this by providing hands-on access to national, state, and regional data findings as well as offering technical assistance in the collection and use of this data by policymakers, program leaders, advocates and researchers in order to inform and advance key child and youth health goals.

Websites for Kids and Teens

Tue, 04 May 2010 17:07:00 EST

Follow this link to find a listing of CDC and other federal goverment websites that teach kids and teens about various health and safety topics.

The CDC Parent Portal

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 15:10:00 EST

Did you know that CDC had a Parent Portal? On this site, you'll find everything from safety at home and in the community to immunization schedules and developmental milestones. Let the CDC Parent Portal help you keep your child healthy and safe!

National Infant Immunization Week

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 15:07:00 EST

National Infant Immunization Week (NIIW) is an annual celebration of the significant role immunizations play in keeping our children and our communities healthy. NIIW 2010 is April 24—May 1. Immunization is one of the best ways parents can protect their infants and young children from potentially serious diseases. Check to see if your child is up to date on immunizations.

How to Prevent Meningococcal Disease

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:30:00 EST

Meningococcal disease is a serious, vaccine-preventable infection. The meningococcal conjugate vaccine is recommended for all 11-18 year olds. Kids should get this vaccine at their 11-12 year old check-up with other preventive services. Kids 13-18 years old who haven’t gotten the vaccine can get it any time.

Detect Autism Early

Tue, 27 Apr 2010 13:29:00 EST

We naturally think of height and weight, but from birth to 5 years, your child should reach milestones in how he or she plays, learns, speaks and acts. A delay in any of these areas could be a sign of a developmental problem, even autism. The good news is, the earlier it's recognized the more you can do to help your child reach her full potential.

Green Kids

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:35:00 EST

This week is National Environmental Education Week, and April 22 is Earth Day. Are you a green kid? Or is your child a green kid? Green is more than just a color. Being green means taking special steps to protect the environment — the water, the land, and the air we breathe. Read this article and take the Being Green Quiz!

Schools Can Help Teach our Youth to Live Tobacco Free

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:05:00 EST

Smoking and smokeless tobacco use are almost always initiated and established during adolescence. Most people who begin smoking during adolescence are addicted by the age of 20.

Sun Safety for America's Youth Toolkit

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 18:04:00 EST

This toolkit is designed as a resource for state/tribe/territory/jurisdiction comprehensive cancer control (CCC) programs interested in engaging schools and other education partners in sun safety efforts to reduce their state/tribe/territory/jurisdiction’s incidence of skin cancer. Since a majority of sun exposure occurs during childhood and early adulthood, and key sun protective behaviors can be established most easily at this time, addressing sun safety for young people is an important cancer control objective.

An Average of 1 in 110 Children have an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 17:58:00 EST

April is Autism Awareness Month. CDC's most recent data show that between 1 in 80 and 1 in 240 children with an average of 1 in 110 have an ASD. This is a prevalence of about 1% of children. These recent results reflect data collected by CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network in multiple communities throughout the U.S. in 2006.

Dating Matters: Understanding Teen Dating Violence Prevention

Wed, 07 Apr 2010 12:20:00 EST

CDC, in partnership with Liz Claiborne, Inc., has developed a new online training called Dating Matters: Understanding Teen Dating Violence Prevention. The training will help educators, youth leaders, and others working with teens understand the importance of healthy relationships and how to prevent violence before it starts.

Autism Research

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 12:06:00 EST

April is Autism Awareness Month. Learn more about CDC’s Study to Explore Early Development (SEED), which is the largest collaborative scientific study to date of the risk factors of autism.

Safe and Healthy Kids and Teens

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:43:00 EST

At a very young age, children develop the habits and behaviors that will influence their life-long health. This page provides links to information that will help you guide your kids in making healthy choices.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 11:30:00 EST

Approximately 794,000 children are confirmed by Child Protective Services each year as being abused or neglected. These confirmed cases, however, represent only a fraction of the true magnitude of the problem. This feature article discusses child maltreatment as a significant public health problem.

STRYVE: Striving to Reduce Youth Violence Everywhere

Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:25:00 EST

STRYVE is a guide for communities, states, and the country to use in developing and implementing evidence-informed strategies, programs, and policies for stopping violence before it occurs. STRYVE includes a multidisciplinary strategic plan of action to increase the effectiveness and efficacy of youth violence prevention.

Parents are the Key

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 15:16:00 EST

Through the Parents are the Key campaign, CDC, with funding from The Allstate Foundation, offers parents tools and proven steps for reducing teen driving injuries and deaths. Resources are also available for businesses and groups to participate in the campaign and help keep young drivers safe.

Fight the Bite Poster Contest

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 10:29:00 EST

CDC and the DEET Education Program have set April 5 as the deadline for this year's Fight the Bite Poster Content. This contest is open to all fifth and sixth graders in the U.S. The contest encourages students to illustrate ways to protect themselves and family members from diseases spread by mosquitoes and ticks by using repellent while outdoors.

Let's Move

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 10:19:00 EST

Michelle Obama's national effort to address childhood obesity launched recently. Learn more and join the First Lady, community leaders, medical and public health professionals, and parents in this campaign to tackle childhood obesity.