Paediatrics is the branch of medicine that focuses on the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents from birth up to young adulthood. The word “paediatrics” comes from the Greek words “pais” (child) and “iatros” (healer), literally meaning “healer of children”.

Paediatricians are medical doctors who have completed additional training specifically focused on the unique health needs of children. These needs differ from those of adults because children’s bodies are still growing and developing. Paediatricians are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of childhood illnesses, from minor injuries to chronic conditions. They also provide preventive care, such as immunizations and well-child checkups.