The American Academy of Pediatrics or the AAP is committed to the well being of children. The AAP and its member pediatricians dedicate their efforts and resources to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults. Most American pediatricians are members of this physician focused organization.

History

The American Academy of Pediatrics was founded in June 1930 by 35 pediatricians who met in Detroit in response to the need for an independent pediatric forum to address children's needs. When the AAP was established, the idea that children have special developmental and health needs was a new one. Preventive health practices now associated with child care - such as immunizations and regular health exams - were only just beginning to change the custom of treating children as "miniature adults."

Mission Statement

The mission of the American Academy of Pediatrics is to attain optimal physical, mental and social health and well-being for all infants, children, adolescents and young adults. To this purpose, the AAP and its members dedicate their efforts and resources.

The American Academy of Pediatrics is an organizational member of the Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, which advocates gun control.

A Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP) must be certified in pediatrics by the American Board of Pediatrics , American Osteopathic Board of Pediatrics , the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, or La Corporation Professionelle de Medicins du Quebec . A Specialty Fellow must be certified in a specialty of pediatrics. A Corresponding Fellow is a fellow who resides and practices in a country other than the United States of America, its territories, or Canada, and must have been certified by the appropriate boards.

Corporate funding

The American Academy of Pediatrics have been criticized for accepting large contributions from the pharmaceutical, vaccine and infant formula industries. According to a Center for Science in the Public Interest report, the AAP has received over $8 million in renewable grants from formula manufacturers.

External links

• American Academy of Pediatrics
• AAP Friends of Children Fund Corporate Members
• CSPI report detailing corporate funding of AAP