From strong data for JNJ-2113 to a deep dive into climate change and pediatric health care, get caught up with our weekly review article.
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Thank you for visiting the Contemporary Pediatrics® website. Take a look at some of our top stories from the week (Monday, April 7, to Friday, April 11, 2025), and click on each link to read and watch anything you may have missed.
On April 10, 2025, Johnson & Johnson shared positive phase 3 results for JNJ-2113 (icotrokinra), an oral IL-23 receptor inhibitor, in adolescents with moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis. In the ICONIC-LEAD trial, 84% achieved clear or almost clear skin by week 16, and 75% had completely clear skin by week 24. The once-daily pill demonstrated a favorable safety profile and could offer a new treatment option for this underserved population.
On April 10, 2025, experts emphasized the disproportionate impact of climate change on children, who face heightened risks of respiratory illness, malnutrition, vector-borne diseases, mental health disorders, and other serious conditions. The article outlines how pediatric nurses can help mitigate these effects through education, advocacy, and promotion of climate-resilient practices. Strategies like the CDC’s BRACE framework and resources from organizations like the EPA and Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments are highlighted as tools to guide clinical and community responses.
On April 10, 2025, a new study found that 66% of US girls ages 13 to 17 live in states with abortion bans, gestational limits, or parental involvement laws. Using data from the Kaiser Family Foundation, Guttmacher Institute, and US Census, researchers highlighted the disproportionate impact of these policies on adolescents, particularly those from marginalized racial and ethnic groups. Limited access to travel, telehealth, and confidential care further restricts options for teens compared with adults.
On April 10, 2025, Carissa Baker-Smith, MD, MPH, presented findings at the ACC 2025 conference showing that point-of-care ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) significantly improves pediatric hypertension diagnosis. In a high-deprivation urban cohort, 97% of families accepted same-day ABPM placement, and tolerability was high. Results showed poor correlation between 3 in-office BP readings and ABPM, but improved accuracy with 10 readings (P = 0.03). ABPM also revealed comorbidities like potential sleep apnea.
On April 11, 2025, an educational review emphasized the importance of accurate diagnosis and nutrition planning in children with suspected food allergies. Pediatricians can help families distinguish between food allergies and intolerances to prevent unnecessary dietary restrictions and nutrient deficiencies. Conditions like CMPA, FPIES, and eosinophilic GI diseases carry specific nutritional risks that require careful substitutions and periodic reevaluation. Compassionate, evidence-based care—including dietitian involvement—ensures children maintain nutritional adequacy and psychosocial well-being while navigating dietary restrictions.
