Gender disparity in pediatric diseases

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Sex/gender differences are well-documented in adult complex diseases.
• Pediatric diseases also exhibit gender disparities, though studies show varied results due to environmental and social factors.
• Significant gender disproportion exists in childhood mortality and morbidity for severe conditions like sepsis, cancers, and immune disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing literature on sex/gender differences in pediatric morbidity and mortality.
• To examine these differences across communicable and non-communicable diseases, including cancer.
• To discuss potential underlying mechanisms, such as hormonal and epigenetic factors.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of epidemiologic studies on pediatric sex/gender differences.
• Analysis of data concerning communicable and non-communicable diseases in children.
• Discussion of hormonal and epigenetic factors influencing observed disparities.

Main Results:

• Gender disparities in pediatric diseases are present from early life.
• Hormonal influences and differential gene expression in XX and XY cells contribute to these differences.
• The extent of gender disparity varies significantly across different pediatric pathological conditions.

Conclusions:

• Sex/gender differences in pediatric health are an early-occurring phenomenon.
• Hormonal and epigenetic factors play a role in pediatric disease disparities.
• Re-evaluating the gender issue in pediatric research can enhance diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.