Pediatric Health Chat

Expert Answers and Advice

The mission of Pediatric Health Chat

We are surveying CHOP healthcare professionals to learn what topics families are telling them are common sources of conflicting information. We’ll display the trends on this site each month, so you know what pediatric health misinformation is circulating in your community.

Watch a video from our experts

Are you a CHOP provider who wants to contribute to this project? Complete this survey to share your experiences with misinformation in the healthcare setting.

CHOP providers: See how you can help

Vitamin K

Since the 1960s, one shot of vitamin K for newborn babies has been recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Parents are wondering if it's really necessary.

"Why is it important for babies to get a shot of vitamin K?"

Vitamin K shots are important for newborn babies to stop bleeding and strokes because they don't have enough vitamin K in their bodies and can't get enough of it from milk.
Giving vitamin K by mouth isn't suggested because babies might not absorb it well, and the amount they get can vary, which increases the chance of bleeding.
Some people may worry about side effects, but the vitamin K shot is safe, does not cause serious health problems, and is highly recommended by doctors.

Learn more about vitamin K for babies >

Seed Oils

Seed oils are often talked about in terms of health. Some people say they might be harmful or cause health problems, but it's important to check scientific facts before believing these claims.

"What are seed oils and why does your body need them?"

Seed oils come from plants like sunflowers and soybeans and are a type of vegetable oil. They provide important fats that our bodies need but can't make on their own.
These oils help with inflammation, which is a natural process that helps us heal. However, eating too much of them might cause too much inflammation.
Scientists are still studying how these fats affect our health, especially our heart and brain. It's important to eat a balanced amount of seed oils to avoid missing out on necessary nutrients, especially for kids' growth and health.

Learn more about seed oils for kids >

HPV

HPV vaccines are recommended by pediatricians for both girls and boys beginning at age 9. Parents are wondering, why does a boy need an HPV vaccine?

"Why do boys need HPV vaccines?"

HPV is a virus that causes cervical cancer, but it also causes other cancers that affect boys and men.
About four of every 10 cases of HPV-related cancer occur in boys or men.
We recommend the HPV vaccine starting at age 9.

Learn more about the HPV vaccine >

Sea Moss

Sea moss extract is turning up across social media and in supplements, smoothies, and skin care. Is this supplement proven to provide any health benefit?

"Is sea moss extract good for you?"

Sea moss is gaining attention with some calling it a “superfood” and it winds up as an ingredient in supplements, smoothies, and skin care.
While rich in minerals and vitamins, sea moss also contains iodine and heavy metals.
The lack of FDA approval and high-quality human studies calls for cautious use and further research.

Learn more about sea moss extract >