What is the future of paediatric pulmonology in Europe?

Abstract

Respiratory diseases represent the most frequent reasons for families with children to seek medical advice and care. The majority of the acute illnesses are self–limited and with a benign clinical course that makes them manageable with minimal resources. Chronic respiratory illnesses have to be assessed by specialists, mostly by paediatric pulmonologists and often need special attention and interventions. Referral to centres with trained paediatric pulmonologists is essential for timely diagnosis and proper care. Unfortunately, there still is no uniformity in training such specialists throughout Europe. The ERS and CIPP have a major role in developing the training in paediatric pulmonology in order to gradually harmonise this speciality across Europe. With all the achievements till now, paediatric pulmonology is a growing speciality with a great future.