Molly Ferguson for STAT
As the effects of climate change play out worldwide, pediatricians see the evidence in their offices.
There are the children with asthma who experience more frequent attacks as a result of excess heat and longer allergy seasons. And then there are kids who have missed vaccinations or other routine care because more frequent hurricanes or other natural disasters have displaced their families.
Now a new network of pediatricians nationwide is working on a grassroots effort to raise awareness of the effects of climate change on children’s health. Pediatricians participating in the all-volunteer initiative, known as American Academy of Pediatrics’ Chapter Climate Advocates Program, told STAT that the impact is clear, and will become more serious.