The overall mission of the Pediatric Pulmonary Centers is to train and develop leaders who will improve the health of children with respiratory conditions through the provision of family-centered care. Respiratory diseases are responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality among our nation's children. Over 7 million children in the United States are afflicted with lung-disabling conditions. Respiratory distress syndrome of the newborn and pneumonia are two of the top ten causes of death in children under one year of age. Respiratory conditions are also the principal reason for school absenteeism and for days of limited activity among children.
Respiratory conditions encompass a number of acute and chronic disorders.
Cigarette smoking, a leading cause of preventable cardiopulmonary morbidity and mortality among adults, usually begins in adolescence. These pediatric respiratory conditions, which are more prevalent among low income families and in minority populations, are a significant public health concern. The Department of Health and Human Services has recognized the adverse effects of pulmonary illnesses on the health of our nation's children. Goals are aimed at reducing the prevalence of these conditions in the strategic health plan, Healthy People 2000. To meet these ongoing challenges, extensive respiratory, nutritional and pharmacological interventions are required, in addition to appropriate developmental and psychosocial support of children and their families.