Sun protection, probiotics and parental smoking cessation.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This article addresses three areas where new research demonstrates the potential to impact the health of children and adolescents: sun protection, probiotic use, and parental smoking cessation.

RECENT FINDINGS: Skin cancer rates are rising, and sun exposure in childhood and exposure to tanning beds are important preventable risk factors. Research on the use of probiotics to treat a variety of intestinal and nonintestinal diseases is expanding. By counseling parents about smoking cessation, pediatricians can assist in decreasing childhood exposure to harmful second-hand and third-hand smoke.

SUMMARY: New research on probiotic use in children shows its potential in prevention and treatment of common childhood illnesses. By finding ways to educate patients and parents on the dangers of ultraviolet radiation and smoke exposure, pediatricians can improve both short-term and long-term health of their patients.