This article is only available in the PDF format. Download the PDF to view the article, as well as its associated figures and tables.
In Reply.—I would like to thank Dr Travis and his associate for their concern, and I appreciate how sensitive the issue is of limiting children from desirable physical activity.
It is very difficult to compile an outline for the physician evaluating children for competition that alerts his attention to those children in whom the risks are different than the normal child. I believe that in most cases the risks never outweigh the benefits that come from physical activity and competition. I am particularly concerned that there is a far greater risk of instilling an attitude of inferiority in children with chronic disease. This is particularly true where the underlying problem is further complicated by external social pressures that tell that child he cannot do what other children can. The paper specifically addresses that issue.
However, as protectors and advocates for children, we must ensure the safety of each individual