There is a considerable gap between the existing scientific developments in the field of medicine and what can be or is translated to the underprivileged sections of our society. National Health Programs are the primary links between the tremendous progress made in low cost, feasible and effective technology and the community. Several cost-effective interventions of immense public health importance are being implemented through these health programs. Our students should not merely confine themselves to the teaching hospital settings but also familiarize themselves with the health services available to the vast majority of our population.

The first edition of Frontiers in Social Pediatrics was conceived and produced in 1998 in response to the urgent felt need for such a monograph, particularly for the postgraduate students in pediatrics and community medicine. This book was very well received and became an essential companion for most of these students. However, substantial advances have occurred in this field since then including the launch of new national programs and modifications of existing interventions. This second edition is intended to diligently update the subject information and complement the contents with topics of practical value while dealing with patients. Almost all the earlier chapters have been extensively revised and new topical subjects introduced. The contents have been organized into following sections: Evolution of Social Pediatrics in India; Neonatal, Child and Adolescent Health; Nutrition; Everyday Practice; Legal Rights and Vulnerable Children; Clinical Epidemiology and Research; and National Health Programs. Apart from the postgraduate students in Pediatrics and Community Medicine, the contents will also interest policy makers and allied professionals involved in child care.

This book has emanated from the dedicated efforts of a group of distinguished contributors who promptly responded to our call, despite constraints of their busy schedules. The meticulousness of the publisher in ensuring the high quality and expeditious production deserves appreciation.

We sincerely hope that this second edition too fulfils the objectives with which it was conceived and retains the niche that was carved out by the first edition.

There is a considerable gap between the existing scientific developments in the field of medicine and what is readily available to the underserved sections of the society. National Health Programs are the primary links between the tremendous progress made in low cost, feasible and effective technology and the community. Several cost effective interventions of immense public health importance are being implemented through these health programs. Students of medicine should not restrict themselves to the four walls of large hospital setting only. They also need to know about the health services available to more than 80% of our population.

Frontiers in Social Pediatrics is conceived in response to the urgent felt need for such a teaching material, particularly for the postgraduate students in pediatrics and community medicine. Certain chapters will also interest policy makers and allied professionals involved in child care.

This monograph has emanated from the dedicated efforts of a group of distinguished contributors who promptly responded to our call, despite constraints of their busy schedules. The diligence of the publisher in ensuring the high quality and expeditious production deserves appreciation.

We sincerely hope that the volume fulfils the objectives with which it was conceived.