In response to the pressing need to safeguard children’s health amidst rising environmental challenges, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have joined forces to introduce free online course.
In an age where pollution and climate change pose significant threats to children’s well-being and future, this course aims to empower healthcare providers with vital knowledge and resources to effectively recognize and mitigate these risks.
Dr. Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change, and Health at WHO, emphasized the urgency, stating, ‘Over a quarter of all disease burden among children under 5 years of age are attributed to adverse environmental conditions. The need to act is clear: we must prioritize children’s environmental health to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.’
The course offers a comprehensive examination of children’s environmental health, delving into critical global topics such as air pollution, climate change, e-waste, lead exposure, pesticides, and other hazards affecting children’s well-being. Participants will acquire valuable insights and practical strategies to bolster their capacity in this crucial area of healthcare.
UNICEF and WHO underscored that every child possesses the fundamental right to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. By prioritizing children’s environmental health, this right can be upheld, safeguarding the well-being of children worldwide.
George Laryea-Adjei, Director Programme Group at UNICEF, highlighted the vulnerability of children’s developing bodies to environmental dangers, stating, ‘Lead poisoning is a devastating example: it can lower IQ and increase violent behaviour. Health workers are on the front lines, safeguarding children from these types of risks.’
The course addresses a significant gap in the healthcare sector, where many providers lack the knowledge to recognize, assess, and manage environment-related diseases in children. Equipped with tailored training materials and resources, including examples of local initiatives, healthcare professionals will be empowered to better tackle these challenges within their local contexts.
