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Developing Concerns: Great News!

On December 17, 2025 Washington Post reported that the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) announced that it had terminated seven grants totaling millions of dollars to the American Academy of Pediatrics, including “improving adolescent health, preventing fetal alcohol syndrome and identifying autism early”. The grant proposal “identifying autism early” was submitted by Dr. Renee Wachtel on behalf of AAP-CA1. 


These DHHS grants, previously awarded to the AAP by the CDC, were canceled after the AAP criticized DHHS and Secretary Kennedy for making unilateral changes to federal vaccine policy, undermining evidence-based medicine. The AAP then challenged DHHS in court. On January 12, 2026 a federal court ordered DHHS to restore the nearly $12 million in AAP’s grants while the AAP’s case against the government proceeds. Judge Howell stated “retaliatory actions serve both to punish past disfavored speech and as a warning shot to chill such speech in the future”.


The AAP then proceeded to continue the grant application process, and 10 grants were awarded, including AAP-CA1’s grant proposal to identify autism early. What does the grant propose to do?...continue reading...


Renee Wachtel, MD, FAAP

Chair, School Health and Behavioral & Developmental Committees, AAPCA1


What's Changed in Youth Substance Use

As substance use trends evolve, it can be hard to know where to start when talking with adolescents about drug use. “Smoking” often means cannabis, not tobacco. Vaping nicotine has largely replaced cigarettes (though cigarettes are making a comeback alongside ’90s styles). While surveys show overall youth substance has declined, increasing product potency and the introduction of synthetic opioids have significantly changed the landscape.


Here are key points every pediatrician should know:



  • High-capacity vaping devices commonly used by adolescents (e.g., Puff Bar, Geek Bar) can deliver as much nicotine as 800 cigarettes! I recently calculated for a patient that they were consuming the equivalent of about 50 cigarettes’ worth of nicotine daily—and they were genuinely shocked. This type of comparison can be a powerful educational tool and can help guide nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) prescribing.


A recent study found that legalization of cannabis in California was associated with increased frequent cannabis use among adolescents...continue reading...


Billy Burrough, MD, MPH, FAAP

Chair, Committee on Substance Use and Prevention (COSUP), AAP-CA1


President Column:

Making Our Voices Heard —Together



As pediatricians, our collective voice is one of the most powerful tools we have to advocate for children, families, and each other. When we come together as a chapter—sharing ideas, stepping into leadership, and engaging in the work of the Academy—we amplify our impact and lift one another up. I encourage all members of AAP-CA1 to take advantage of several upcoming opportunities to engage, connect, and lead.


March 10: Annual Membership Meeting- Register Here


Our Annual Membership Meeting, postponed from last year, will take place on March 10. This meeting will be an opportunity to reflect on our accomplishments from 2025 and discuss where we are going next as a chapter.


We are especially honored to welcome our guest speaker, Jessie Allan, MD, FAAP, Chair of the AAP Section on Hospital Medicine (SOHM). Dr. Allan is a nationally recognized expert in gender equity in pediatrics. She will provide updates in hospital medicine and deliver a powerful talk on professional belonging—a conversation that is both timely and meaningful for all of us. This is sure to be a wonderful session and one you won’t want to miss.


Jessie Allan (Chair, Section of Hospital Medicine)

March 15 (extended deadline): Call for AAP Resolutions-Submit Here.


One of the most impactful ways members can shape the direction of the American Academy of Pediatrics is through the Call for Resolutions (resolutions template here).


Our chapter would love to sponsor your ideas. How can the AAP do more? How can it do better? Whether your idea is big or small, submitting a resolution ensures that your voice is heard and that your perspective helps guide the future of pediatric advocacy and policy. 

The deadline for chapter sponsorship has been extended to March 15 (submitted to National AAP by April 1), so there is still time to submit!


Please encourage your colleagues to join our chapter! Here is the link to join, and feel free to share: AAP California Chapter 1 Membership.


Neel Patel, MD, FAAP

President, AAP-CA1

Epidemiology Rebound: A Comprehensive Assessment of Tuberculosis Resurgence in California

The domestic landscape of tuberculosis control has reached a critical inflection point, characterized by a sustained reversal of multi-decadal progress. For the better part of thirty years, the United States maintained a consistent downward trajectory in tuberculosis incidence, driven by aggressive public health interventions and robust surveillance. However, recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state-level health departments indicate that the nation has entered a period of resurgence that began in 2021 and has persisted through 2024 and into 2025. This revitalization of an ancient pathogen is not a monolithic event but rather a localized and demographic-specific phenomenon influenced by the lingering effects of the global COVID-19 pandemic, shifts in international migration patterns, and significant disruptions to the global public health funding environment.


National Surveillance and the Acceleration of Case Counts

In 2024, the United States provisionally reported 10,347 cases of tuberculosis disease, marking an 8% increase from the 9,622 cases recorded in 2023. While this 8% growth represents a deceleration compared to the 15% surge observed between 2022 and 2023, it nevertheless signifies the fourth consecutive year of increasing case counts and rates...continue reading...


Mark M. Simonian, MD, FAAP

Chair, Water Safety Council of Fresno County,

Vice Chair, CA Water Safety Coalition



Chapter Events

AAP-CA1 Annual Membership Meeting

Tuesday, Mar. 10 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm | via Zoom


Join us for our annual AAP-CA1 Annual Membership Meeting on Tuesday, March 10 from @6:00 to 7:00PM! This meeting will highlight key updates from the Chapter, reflect on accomplishments from the past year, and outline priorities for the year ahead. Members will have the opportunity to connect with Chapter leadership, stay informed on advocacy efforts, and learn how to remain engaged in advancing the health and well-being of children across California.

Adolescent Substance Use: What Healthcare Providers Should Know and Do

Monday, Mar. 16 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm | via Zoom


AAP-CA1 invites you to join the Adolescent Substance Use: What Healthcare Providers Should Know and Do Chapter Chat held virtually on Monday, March 16 from 6:00 to 7:00PM! Pediatricians play a vital role in helping prevent youth substance use. Don’t miss this important discussion on supporting families through early education and intervention!

Childhood Nutrition & Obesity Prevention Committee Meeting

Wednesday, Mar. 25 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm | via Zoom


AAP-CA1 invites you to join the Childhood Nutrition & Obesity Committee meeting held virtually on Wednesday, March 25 from 6:00 to 7:00 P.M! Don’t miss this important discussion on nutrition counseling in pediatric primary care!

10th Annual Pediatrics Puzzles Conference

Saturday, May 2 | San Francisco Zoo


Join us on May 2 at the San Francisco Zoo for the 10th Annual Pediatric Puzzles Conference. Pediatricians, primary care providers, nurses, family medicine practitioners, residents and all AAP members are invited to attend!


  • Chapter members get a discount of $55 off your registration!
  • 4.5 CME credit available
  • Scholarships for physicians in training available!

Chapter Leadership Positions

Apply for Area Director Positions!



As an Area Director, you'll be part of a dynamic team representing one of our 11 diverse geographic areas. You will become a voting member of our chapter board and engage with local pediatric providers to advocate for children's health through the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Volunteer alongside a supportive leadership team dedicated to shaping the future of pediatric care.


Time commitment: 2-4 hours per month


Perks and Benefits:

  • Membership on AAP Board: Gain valuable experiences and networking opportunities
  • Discounted CME Events: Access quality education at reduced rates.
  • Advocacy Day in Sacramento: Participate in impactful advocacy efforts.

SCMF Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) Coalition Meeting



Tuesday, Mar. 10 | 11:30-12:30pm | Virtual


SCMF Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) Coalition warmly invites community partners, providers, educators, and advocates to connect, collaborate, and share ideas that support healthier families and stronger communities. Together, we focus on addressing toxic stress, promoting positive childhood experiences, and building a supportive regional network of care.

ACEs Health Champions Gathering

Friday, Mar. 20 | 12:00-01:00pm | Virtual



Investigations of child sexual abuse, particularly online abuse, often find sexually explicit images of the victim taken by the offender. This presentation discusses new guidelines from APSAC opposing the misguided practice of showing these images to parents.


Pediatricians Invited to Participate in NYU Research Study


AAP-CA1 is pleased to share a brief research opportunity from the NYU Department of Pediatric Dentistry. Dr. Neha Jivan, pediatric dental resident at New York University, is conducting a short study exploring the nutrition and oral health education pediatricians receive during residency and beyond, as well as pediatricians’ confidence in providing nutrition and oral-health counseling to families. The anonymous online survey takes approximately 5–7 minutes to complete. Your participation will help support cross-collaboration between pediatrics and pediatric dentistry and inform future education efforts.

Mother's Milk Bank California: Best Place to Pump Nominations


We’re proud to announce the launch of the Best Place to Pump Award at Mothers’ Milk Bank California.


As more women with children enter and lead in today’s workforce, employers have a powerful opportunity to create environments that meaningfully support breastfeeding and pumping at work. The Best Place to Pump Award recognizes organizations that go beyond basic compliance and actively foster inclusive, supportive workplaces where lactating parents can thrive.


About the Award

  • This recognition celebrates organizations that:
  • Provide clean, safe, and private lactation spaces
  • Offer flexible schedules to support milk expression
  • Cultivate a workplace culture that supports nursing and donor parents
  • Promote parental wellness and work–life integration


From hospitals and universities to corporate offices and public agencies, honorees reflect what it truly means to support working families.


Nominations & Key Dates

  • Nominations open: January 26, 2026
  • Submission deadline: March 16, 2026
  • Honorees announced: March 26, 2026

California Children's Caucus Launch February 17, 2026


Assemblymember Mia Bonta, founding Chair of the California Children’s Caucus, formally launched the bipartisan and bicameral caucus alongside child advocates and an inaugural class of legislators. 

 

“It’s about time California focused on children. That’s why we decided to found the California Legislative Children’s Caucus. We are over 40 members strong across the Assembly and Senate including Democrats and Republicans. We are going to be focused on solutions – child-centered solutions,” said Assemblymember Bonta. “Nearly one in every five children in California are living in poverty in the fourth largest economy in the world. We know that in California, we can do better for our kids.

 

The California Children’s Caucus represents more than 8 million children across the Golden State and will organize its work around key pillars, including: childcare access, foster youth, children’s health, education, civic engagement, youth justice, housing security, environmental sustainability, economic security, financial literacy, and overall child welfare.

 

Bonta mentioned a few children’s advocate partners that included: Children’s Partnership, First Five, Children Now, CA Alliance of Child and Family Services, End Child Poverty CA, Oakland Promise, and CalKids.

 

Assemblymember Bonta was joined by some members of the California Legislative Children’s Caucus, who shared their commitment to advancing the caucus's goals and their current legislative priorities to achieve them... continue reading...

Pediatric Careers in California!


Explore our job board for exciting career opportunities or share one of your own. Visit aapca1.org/jobs/.


  • Chapter Members: Enjoy a discounted rate of $50 for a 90-day job posting and promotion.
  • Non-Members/Corporate Entities: Post for 30 days at $100.


Take the next step in your pediatric career today!

Pediatric Jobs Available!

Pediatrician – Tamalpais Pediatrics - Marin County, CA

Northern California Pediatric Hospitalist Opportunity – Gould Medical Group - Modesto, CA

Primary Care Pediatric Opportunity, FT/PT – SF Bay Pediatrics - Marin County, CA

Urgent Care Pediatrician - San Francisco, CA

Resources

Kids Considered Podcast


On this episode we are joined by EDI Champion Dr. Amna Khan to discuss health equity and discuss tips for celebrating diversity and embracing cultural differences both in the doctors office and at home.


Health Equity and Embracing Cultural Differences - 28 min



Recommended by Kids Considered

Moral Stress and Moral Injury Webinar Resources - Part 1


Rights for Health Providers

Information about 4th amendment rights against unreasonable search and more


(National Immigrant Law Center, NILC)

Factsheet: Trump’s Rescission of Protected Areas Policies Undermines Safety for All - NILC​ 


Model Policies and Protocols

Guide for Policy Makers IL Alliance for Welcoming


Doctors for Immigrants Toolkit


Physician for Human Rights Toolkit


Everyone Belongs Here example policies


Recommended by Mental Health Committe Chair, Dr. Lisa Leavitt, AAP-CA1

Moral Stress and Moral Injury Webinar Resources - Part 2


 Know Your Rights

"Red cards:" Order or print, in multiple languages, from ILRC​


Know Your Right (KYR) app(Reads rights out loud/immediately calls emergency contacts)


National Immigrant LawCenter (NILC):

KnowYour Rights:Health Care andHealth Insurance for Immigrants


Videos on Know Your Rights: Immigrant Defense Project & We Have Rights 


Recommended by Mental Health Committe Chair, Dr. Lisa Leavitt, AAP-CA1

Cal-MAP: Mental Health Support Resources


Cal-MAP’s team of mental health specialists supports primary care providers (PCPs) treating youth with mental health needs through education, consultation, and resource navigation.


Register for the Cal-MAP consultation program here: https://cal-map.org

 

Contact Us:

Phone:

800-253-2103

Email: info@cal-map.org


Recommended by AAP-CA1 Mental Health Committee

Women's History Month:

Recommended Resources

Women’s History Month is an opportunity to inspire kids through stories of courage, resilience, and innovation. As your kids learn about women who have shaped our society, they’ll gain an appreciation for challenging stereotypes, breaking barriers, and creating a more equitable world.


Susan Scanlan and the History of Women's History Month - 2 min video



Recommended by National Women's History Museum

AAP News


Read AAP's latest news article on a law banning e-cigarette flavors had little effect on teen habits.


Study: Law banning e-cigarette flavors had little effect on teens’ habits


Recommended by AAP

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Twitter: @AAPCA1

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Facebook: California Chapter 1, American Academy of Pediatrics

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Website: https://aapca1.org/

Your membership makes a difference for children in California, thank you!


The AAPCA1's ability to advocate on behalf of children is only as strong as the support we receive from our members. Encourage your colleagues to join today by visiting the AAPCA1 website.


Our mission is to promote the optimal health and development of children and
adolescents of Northern California in partnership with their families and communities, and to support the pediatricians who care for them.

Executive Committee:

President: Neel Patel • Vice President: Saul Diaz Martinez

Secretary: Kerrilyn Rice • Treasurer: Amita Saxena • Past President: Nicole Webb



Area Directors:

North Valley: Aishwarya Taneja • Sacramento Valley: Lena van der List • Central Valley: Deborah Shassetz • South Valley: Sireesha Palkamsetti • San Francisco: Ryan Alanzalon • Santa Clara: Swetang Shahm • San Mateo: Jonathon Everett • North Coastal: VACANT • Monterey Bay: VACANT • Alameda County: Renee Wachtel • Contra Costa/Solano: Jennifer Anne Miller


Pediatric Insider News Editors:

Christy Capestany • Nicole Anderson



Staff:

Executive Director: Yolanda Ruiz Project Coordinator: Sana Sayyid •

Marketing Assistant: Arathzy Portillo