Things in the library 8th June...

Things about obesity...
The House of Commons Health Committee has published a report which states that current estimates suggest that nearly a third of children aged 2 to 15 are overweight or obese in the UK and younger generations are becoming obese at earlier ages and staying obese for longer. Obesity rates are highest for children from the most deprived areas and this situation is getting worse. Children aged 5 and from the poorest income groups are twice as likely to be obese compared to their most well-off counterparts and by age 11 they are three times as likely. The case for stronger action on this unacceptable and widening health inequality is compelling. The Government is expected to publish shortly a refreshed version of the childhood obesity plan first published in summer 2016. This report outlines the following key areas which demand attention as a matter of urgency by the Government before the next chapter of the plan is finalised: A ‘whole systems’ approach; Marketing and advertising; Price promotions; Early years and schools; Takeaways; Fiscal measures; Labelling and Services for children living with obesity.

Things about child sexual abuse and adverse experiences...

The Department of Health and Social Care have published a report which sets out current knowledge on trauma-informed care approaches to child sexual abuse and child sexual exploitation. It includes personal case studies and recommendations for a trusted relationship model.
They have also published a report about adverse childhood experiences which presents key findings from a study that aimed to
describe: the development and piloting of the Implementation Pack; practitioner views of the Implementation Pack; and practitioner (and where possible client) views on REACh (Routine Enquiry about Adversity in Childhood

Things about Lycra...

An article not on the fashion pages but in European Journal of Paediatric Neurology! Lycra garments have recently been used for children with cerebral palsy, with favourable effects on alignment, biomechanics and neuromuscular activity. An immediate improvement of static balance was observed at baseline, with the first use of the Lycra suit. Further improvement was observed at the 6 month follow up, with a statistical significance for the parameters assessing the antero–posterior axis. Both parents and children also reported functional benefits.

Things to do briskly...

Moderate intensity physical activity means getting the heart rate up and breathing faster. Just 10 minutes of brisk walking a day is an easy way for adults to introduce more moderate intensity physical activity into their day and reduce their risk of early death by up to 15%. To help adults do this, Public Health Englands’s ‘Active 10’ app has been created and it is the only app of its kind that combines intensity and time, rather than just distance.

Things about neonates...

An article on the effects of music on hospitalised preterm neonates was published in January (Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology. 2018 Jan 24;ePub ahead of print) and Evidence-based Neonatology have recently reviewed it and their commentary concludes:

With recent evidence suggesting that preterm neonates may be suffering from sensory deprivation, this review complements previous evidence in suggesting that music therapy may moderate the effects of preterm birth on neurodevelopment. However further investigation through well-designed and adequately powered RCTs, which give appropriate consideration to the nature of the musical stimuli provided, will be essential in establishing the short- and long-term effectiveness and safety of this intervention.

Things about children's eating behaviour...
A review article in 'Nutrients'  looks at the relevant factors involved in the creation of some children’s food preferences and eating behaviours in order to highlight the topic and give paediatricians practical instruments to understand the background behind eating behaviour and to manage children’s nutrition for preventive purposes. In this analysis, parental food habits and feeding strategies are the most dominant determinants of a child’s eating behaviour and food choices. Parents should expose their offspring to a range of good food choices while acting as positive role models. Prevention programmes should be addressed taking into account socioeconomic aspects and education.

Things about peregrines...
If you want to find out more about the University of Sheffield's peregrines then book a free place on their Sheffield Peregrine Evening Thu 14 June  18:00 – 20:30 their will be a chance to view the adults and fledglings from the Churchyard (please bring binoculars, if possible. A few pairs will be available to borrow.) followed by talks (in St George's Church Lecture Theatre).

Things to eat...
Make the most of rhubarb at the moment - and what better than a crumble