Division of Pediatric Hospital Medicine

Among those involved in the gun lock safety program are, from left, Heather Kreth, PsyD, left, Erica Shannon and Kelsey Gastineau, MD, MPH. (photo by Donn Jones)

Be SMART campaign highlights efforts to reduce firearm incidents involving children

The Be SMART campaign was launched to raise awareness that secure gun storage — storing guns unloaded, locked and separate from ammunition — can save children’s lives.

Researchers debunk long-standing concern about flu treatment in children

The findings demonstrated what many pediatricians have long suspected: that the flu, not the flu treatment (Tamiflu), is associated with neuropsychiatric events.

Over 40% of Tennessee Families With Children Say They Are Food Insecure; 70% Have Changed Spending on Food

This year’s Vanderbilt Child Health Poll shows that over 40% of Tennessee families report they are food insecure ― a similar proportion from last year. Most families (71%) say they have continued to change food spending habits due to high prices.

By Jake Lowary

February 7, 2024

Education, bullying, mental health, school gun violence top list of parental concerns for their children: poll

The latest results from an annual poll of Tennessee parents from the Vanderbilt Center for Child Health Policy again show education and school quality is the leading concern parents have for their children for the third consecutive year.

By Tamarra McElroy and Jake Lowary

January 4, 2024

Study finds significant increased risk of future health issues for youth who suffer nonfatal firearm injuries

A Vanderbilt study found that youth who suffer nonfatal firearm injuries have a significantly increased risk of hospitalizations, emergency department visits, outpatient visits and costs in the 12 months following injury compared to youth without a firearm injury.