"Children at the Frontline of a Warming Planet: Climate Change, Child Health Consequences, and Critical Nursing Implications"

Abstract: Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant global public health challenges of the 21st century, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, particularly children. Due to their physiological immaturity, dependency, and developing immune and organ systems, children are uniquely susceptible to climate-related environmental hazards. Rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, air pollution, food and water insecurity, and the spread of climate-sensitive infectious diseases pose substantial threats to child health and development. These impacts manifest as increased morbidity and mortality from respiratory illnesses, malnutrition, vector-borne diseases, heat-related disorders, mental health disturbances, and long-term developmental consequences. Nurses, especially those working in pediatric, community, school, and public health settings, play a pivotal role in mitigating these adverse effects through prevention, advocacy, education, early detection, and climate-resilient healthcare delivery. This review article examines the multifaceted effects of climate change on child health and highlights the crucial implications for nursing practice, education, research, and policy. Strengthening nursing capacity to address climate-related child health risks is essential for safeguarding the well-being of present and future generations.