The History of Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine
A rich history of interest in the pathophysiology of diseases affecting
the respiratory systems of infants and children, as well as the tireless
efforts of a small group of dedicated physician-scientists, led to the
development of the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP) Pulmonology
Sub-board in 1986.3,4 Since the inception of the
sub-board, 1418 certificates have been issued by the ABP; among these
1151 remain active.5 The mean age of active
certificate holders is 51.6 years, placing pediatric pulmonologists in
the upper half of average age among all pediatric subspecialties. This
statistic, coupled with the high proportion of unfilled fellowship
positions and programs reported by the National Residency Match Program
(NRMP), has led to significant concerns regarding the pediatric
pulmonology workforce and future of the subspecialty.6