On the occasion of Children’s Day, world-famous pediatric influencer Dr. Imran Patel discusses the intersection of children’s health and climate change, which has become an increasingly urgent issue. Over the years, climate change has been linked to rising health issues in children, ranging from respiratory and heart-related conditions to vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, as well as mental health challenges.
Impact of Climate Change on Children’s Health
Dr. Patel explains that vulnerable populations, especially children, are significantly affected by climate change. Factors such as rising temperatures, poor air quality, and shifting disease patterns are key drivers behind this growing health crisis. For instance, more frequent heatwaves are associated with a spike in heat-related illnesses and even deaths. Poor air quality has exacerbated respiratory conditions like asthma, with Dr. Patel noting a concerning rise in asthma cases among children in his practice. Previously rare, the prescription of inhalers has now become routine. This is likely tied to the changing climate and increasing allergies, making children more vulnerable to these conditions.
Awareness Among Parents and Doctors
While awareness of the climate-health connection is increasing, it is still inconsistent, varying greatly by region. In areas most impacted by climate change, such as those with high pollution or frequent disease outbreaks, parents and healthcare providers are becoming more attuned to these health risks. However, widespread education remains essential. Dr. Patel highlights that while some doctors recognise the symptoms of climate-related illnesses, they may not always connect them to the underlying environmental causes, particularly with indirect effects like air pollution or the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue.
Distinguishing Between Climate-Related and Conventional Diseases
Dr. Patel shares that, for pediatricians, it is relatively easy to spot patterns. Illnesses like diarrhoea, malaria, dengue, and respiratory distress often peak during specific seasons, which are becoming more predictable due to the changing climate. For example, in cities like Mumbai, malaria cases are common, while recent dengue outbreaks have occurred in Ahmedabad. By staying informed about these local trends, pediatricians can guide parents effectively and offer preventive advice.
Treatment for Climate-Related Diseases
In terms of treatment, Dr Patel emphasises that there is no difference between treating climate-related diseases and conventional ones. Whether the disease is linked to climate change or not, the approach remains the same. For example, malaria or dengue will be treated according to established protocols, regardless of their connection to the environment.
Pregnancy, Climate Change, and Mental Health
While Dr. Patel typically treats children post-birth, expectant mothers occasionally approach him with concerns about climate change, particularly regarding anxiety and its effects on their unborn children. He stresses the importance of reassuring these mothers with accurate information about risks and steps they can take to protect both themselves and their child. He advises against fostering unnecessary fear, instead focusing on proactive actions to mitigate climate change.
Integrating Climate Education in Schools
Dr. Patel strongly supports the inclusion of climate change education in school curriculum. Teaching children about the science of climate change, its health impacts, and the importance of sustainable actions could help foster a generation of informed and responsible citizens. He believes that when children understand the relationship between environmental factors and health, they will be better equipped to make sustainable choices and raise awareness within their communities.
Addressing Vulnerability Among the Underprivileged
The underprivileged are especially vulnerable to the health risks posed by climate change, and Dr. Patel points out two key areas of concern. First, many people in lower socioeconomic groups lack access to education about hygiene, disease prevention, and the risks associated with climate change. Basic awareness about how diseases like cholera or malaria spread, and how to stay safe during extreme heat events, is often missing. Raising awareness within these communities, as well as among healthcare workers and local leaders, is essential for reducing illness and death.
Changes in the Disease Profile of Children
Dr. Patel notes a significant shift in the disease profile of children over the past 15 years. The prevalence of allergies and the emergence of new viruses have increased. Diagnoses are more accurate, but there has been a notable rise in cases of developmental delays, with children walking and speaking later than before. Dr. Patel suspects that climate change, along with exposure to chemicals in food, may be contributing to these developmental issues. This highlights the need for broader environmental responsibility to safeguard children’s health.
Google and Medical Advice
Dr. Patel advises against seeking medical advice from Google, pointing out that anyone can post information online, regardless of its accuracy. Many health-related answers found on the internet are unreliable and could even be harmful. He stresses the importance of seeking professional medical advice rather than relying on potentially dangerous or misleading online sources.
Managing Climate Anxiety
As climate anxiety grows, Dr. Patel emphasises that anxiety itself is not a solution. Rather, he suggests that people should channel their concerns into positive actions, such as reducing their carbon footprint and participating in community efforts to raise awareness about climate change. The responsibility to address climate change lies with all of us, not just health professionals or politicians. Dr. Patel believes that by focusing on collective responsibility and taking practical steps to preserve the environment, we can alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding climate change.
To manage climate anxiety, Dr. Patel advises making personal changes that contribute to environmental protection. He recommends adopting more sustainable lifestyles, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting local efforts aimed at reducing the negative impact of climate change. Empowering oneself through education and action will help alleviate feelings of helplessness and create a sense of purpose in the fight against climate change. Only through collective effort can meaningful change occur.
