The number of US children using medications for chronic illnesses increased between 2002 and 2005, reported researchers in the October 31 online Pediatrics.
The number of US children using medications for chronic illnesses increased between 2002 and 2005, reported researchers in the October 31 online Pediatrics.
Investigators performed a cross-sectional study of prescription claims data from 2002 to 2005 for a nationally representative sample of more than 3.5 million children who ages 5 to 19. Antihypertensives, antihyperlipidemics, type 2 antidiabetics, antidepressants, attention-deficit disorder (ADD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications, and asthma-controller therapy were evaluated.
Results showed that the prevalence rate for type 2 antidiabetic agents doubled, with a 166% increase in prevalence among females ages 10 to 14, and a 135% increase among females ages 15 to 19. Asthma medications (46.5%), ADD and ADHD medications (40.4%), and antihyperlipidemics (15%) all increased in prevalence as well, while antihypertensives and antidepressants increased at a relatively lower rate (1.8%).
The study authors noted that additional research is needed to investigate the possible factors involved in the increase in medication use prevalence among children, such as chronic disease risk factors growth, greater awareness and screening, and greater use of early treatment.
Synthesizing CDC immunization recommendations with Mary Koslap-Petraco, DNP, PPCNP-BC, CPNP, FAANP
March 27th 2024Mary Koslap-Petraco, DNP, PPCNP-BC, CPNP, FAANP, provided a review and reminder of the CDC immunization recommendations and schedule during her session at the 45th National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP) National Conference on Pediatric Health Care in Denver, Colorado.