Test: Pediatrics in the Developing World - NEET PG MCQ

The term "pediatrics" comes from Greek, where “pedia” means child and “iatrike” refers to treatment, signifying the science of child care.

The prevalence of infectious agents is a major factor influencing children's health in developing countries, contributing to high rates of morbidity and mortality.

The Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP) advises that pediatricians care for children up to 18 years of age.

Pediatrics is a distinct specialty because children’s health issues, responses to illness, and treatment approaches differ significantly from those of adults.

India achieved the eradication of smallpox in 1980, a significant milestone in child health since independence.

High perinatal and neonatal mortality remains a persistent challenge in India, contributing to elevated infant mortality rates.

Approximately 90% of pediatricians in India are generalists, with many having specific interests, while subspecialties are still developing.

Tropical pediatrics is redefined as the care of children from economically disadvantaged communities, regardless of tropical or nontropical regions, due to the influence of socioeconomic factors.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child, with 54 articles, emphasizes that the "best interests" of children under 18 should be a priority in all situations.

UNICEF reports that approximately 30,500 children under five die daily from preventable causes, highlighting the urgent need for action.

Malnutrition, systemic infections, and diarrheal diseases account for about 75% of pediatric hospital admissions in developing countries.

The IMCI scheme, launched by WHO and UNICEF, addresses multiple ailments like malnutrition, infections, and parasitic infestations in a single child.

The infant mortality rate (IMR) in India is 55 per 1,000 live births, a significant reduction from 129 in 1970, but still higher than in developed countries.

Pediatric education in developing countries emphasizes practical diagnostic skills and affordable treatments to address prevalent issues like malnutrition, diarrheal diseases, and infections.

Article 24 of the Indian Constitution prohibits the employment of children under 14 years in factories, protecting them from exploitation.