Paediatrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the health, growth, and development of infants, children, and adolescents. It encompasses a wide range of care, from preventive health services to the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic diseases affecting younger populations.
Importance of Paediatrics in Medicine
Paediatrics plays a vital role in ensuring the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of children. It focuses on:
- Monitoring growth and development milestones.
- Preventing and managing common childhood illnesses.
- Addressing congenital disorders, genetic diseases, and developmental delays.
- Promoting vaccination and health education to ensure long-term well-being.
Paediatricians act as advocates for children’s health, ensuring they receive proper care in a supportive environment.
Key Topics in Paediatrics
Aspiring Paediatrics study a comprehensive curriculum that includes:
Growth and Development
- Milestones in physical, mental, and emotional development.
- Factors affecting growth and how to address growth-related concerns.
Nutrition
- Breastfeeding and infant nutrition.
- Addressing malnutrition, obesity, and other dietary disorders in children.
Neonatology
- Care of premature and low-birth-weight babies.
- Management of neonatal jaundice and respiratory distress syndrome.
Vaccination and Immunization
- National immunization schedules and vaccine-preventable diseases.
- Monitoring for vaccine-related adverse events.
Common Paediatric Diseases
- Respiratory infections, diarrheal diseases, and fever management.
- Chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy in children.
Congenital and Genetic Disorders
- Identifying and managing birth defects and inherited conditions.
- Genetic counseling and early interventions.
Behavioural and Developmental Disorders
- Autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and learning disabilities.
- Strategies for early detection and therapy.
Paediatric Emergencies
- Handling dehydration, seizures, and trauma in children.
- Emergency care protocols for life-threatening conditions.
Paediatrics Education in India
Number of Colleges Offering Paediatrics
India has over 350 medical colleges offering Paediatrics as a specialty in postgraduate (MD/Diploma) and super-specialty (DM) programs.
Top Institutions for Paediatrics in India
| Sr. No. | College Name | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) | New Delhi |
| 2 | Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh | Chandigarh |
| 3 | Christian Medical College (CMC) | Vellore |
| 4 | Kasturba Medical College (KMC) | Manipal |
| 5 | JIPMER | Puducherry |
Course Structure
- MBBS (Undergraduate): Paediatrics is introduced in the clinical years through theoretical lessons and ward-based training.
- MD in Paediatrics: A 3-year postgraduate program specializing in advanced care for children.
- Diploma in Child Health (DCH): A 2-year program focusing on essential paediatric skills.
- DM in Neonatology: A super-specialty program dedicated to newborn care.
Eligibility Criteria
- For MBBS: NEET UG qualification.
- For MD/MS: NEET PG or INI CET qualification.
Career Opportunities in Paediatrics
Paediatrics offers diverse career paths in clinical practice, research, and public health.
Roles and Work Areas
General Paediatrician
Diagnosing and treating common childhood illnesses.
Monitoring growth and administering vaccinations.
Neonatologist
Providing care to critically ill or premature newborns in NICUs.
Paediatric Surgeon
Performing surgeries for congenital abnormalities or trauma in children.
Community Paediatrician
Working in rural and urban settings to promote child health and wellness.
Academic Roles and Research
Teaching paediatrics and conducting research in child health.
Salary Expectations
- Freshers: ₹6-12 lakh per annum.
- Experienced Specialists: ₹15-40 lakh per annum, depending on expertise and location.
Future Scope of Paediatrics
The field of Paediatrics is ever-expanding, with new challenges and opportunities arising in:
- Managing lifestyle disorders like childhood obesity and juvenile diabetes.
- Addressing global health challenges like malnutrition and infectious diseases.
- Utilizing advancements in genetic medicine, neonatal care, and paediatric oncology.
At Studykart, we are committed to helping NEET UG aspirants excel in Paediatrics and other medical subjects. Explore our resources, mock tests, and expert guidance to pave your way toward a successful career in Paediatrics. Your journey to safeguarding the health of the next generation starts here!
