Doctors Organization Says Poverty Poses Serious Health Risks to Children
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) announced new recommendations for doctors to screen young children for poverty in an effort to reduce its negative impact on health. The organization also released a report documenting the health risks for children in poverty, including higher rates of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and asthma, lower immunizations rates, and much higher rates of stress. The AAP’s recommendations encourage pediatricians to ask children and parents about basic needs and, if necessary, refer them to local resources. It also urges doctors to advocate for public policies that may reduce child poverty, such as increased access to healthcare and job training programs.