The impact of climate change on child health around the world: results of a survey of child health professionals outside the UK

Climate change is a growing crisis, and its effects are being felt most by those who contributed least to global emissions. This report by the RCPCH Climate Change Working Group offers crucial insights into how RCPCH members, child health professionals, from 50 countries are witnessing and responding to the increasing environmental threats to children's health.

Our international survey reveals alarming trends:
• Environmental risks: Healthcare professionals identified exposure to heat, poor air quality and increased infectious diseases as the most common risks to children and young people.
• Morbidity: A majority of respondents reported a rise in childhood morbidity, with diarrhoeal diseases, malnutrition and the direct effects of extreme weather being most prevalent.
• Mental health: Nearly one-third of respondents observed a negative impact on the mental health of children and young people due to climate change.
• Workload and Advocacy: Despite increased workloads, few healthcare professionals in our survey have implemented climate advocacy or mitigation strategies, citing a lack of financial support and awareness of relevant policies.

To address these critical issues, the report makes the following recommendations:

• COP Health Day: Advocate for increased financing for climate adaptation, specifically targeting support for children

• Local and national advocacy: Child health professionals and paediatric associations must leverage their influence to push for action on mitigating environmental risks. 

• Education: Integrate climate change mitigation, adaptation, and advocacy into all levels of medical training. 

• Enhanced data collection: Invest in research to better quantify the impact of climate change on child health and inform policy development. 

This report is a call to action for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and global leaders. We must act now to protect the most vulnerable - our children.