EFFECTS OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON CHILD HEALTH

Global climate change is now recognized as one of the threats of the 21st century and human activities are very likely (90% probability) the main cause of this problem. Global climate change has multiple adverse effects on human health, and vulnerable populations especially (children, the elderly and poor people) have been disproportionately affected. Children are particularly vulnerable to these adverse health effects because of their physical, physiologic and cognitive immaturity and their dependence on caregivers. Pediatricians and health care professionals have a critical leadership role in implementing programs that mitigate and adapt the climate change at local, national and international levels.