[Climate change, pregnancy and child health]

Climate change poses significant risks to the health and well-being of pregnant women and children. These groups are uniquely vulnerable to climate change events due to their changing physiology, behavioural patterns and dependence on family and caregivers. Climate change leads to a range of impacts such as intensification of extreme heat and weather events, spread of infectious diseases as well as ambient air pollution and allergens. This leads to a variety of health risks for pregnant women and children, from pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and preterm birth to increased risk of infant and child mortality. The impact of climate change is not equally distributed. Vulnerable pregnant women and children, especially those in disadvantaged communities or with comorbidities, are at greatest risk. Climate-related hazards worsen existing disparities, affecting food security, water resources, and vital health infrastructure. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts, reduce vulnerabilities, and strengthen protective systems for pregnant women and children.