Global burden of chronic non-communicable diseases: Prenatal care and beyond, numerous challenges besiege investigation across the care continuum.

Abstract

Recently, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced possible restructuring of indirect and administrative costs for funded research. Many entities have raised concern about the impacts that such funding restructuring may have on the future progress of biomedical investigation. The NIH has historically played a key role in research on relevant chronic conditions, including spina bifida and cerebral palsy. Such research funds have not only provided occasion for basic science investigational opportunities but also have allowed for enquiry into clinical, social, and environmental factors that impact disability-specific health outcomes, including those present in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. However, the journal's editorial board is nonetheless encouraged to see the growth and change of Journal of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine (JPRM), as the journal evolves from a special issue format to a collections format. The collections will serve as ever-growing "homes" for the latest research on childhood-onset physical disabilities and complex care needs, with the added benefit of greater accessibility and improved user interface. Furthermore, as reflected in this issue, JPRM will continue to offer a platform for research in multidisciplinary care of childhood disability throughout the lifespan as we weather the changes of time together as a committed global community of clinicians and investigators.