Recognizing the urgent need to empower all health care providers to protect children’s health amid the challenges of environmental pollution and climate change, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are collaborating to create a new free online course.
In an era where pollution and climate change increasingly threaten the health, development and future of children, this course aims to provide healthcare providers with the essential knowledge and resources to effectively recognize and mitigate these risks.
“More than a quarter of the total burden of disease among children under the age of 5 is attributable to adverse environmental conditions,” said Dr Maria Neira, Director of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Health. “The need for action is clear: we must prioritize the health of children’s environments to ensure a healthier future for generations to come.”
This course provides an in-depth examination of children’s environmental health, covering key topics of global concern such as air pollution, climate change, e-waste, lead, pesticides and other hazards affecting children’s well-being. Participants will gain valuable information and practical strategies to improve their capacity in this critical area of healthcare.
UNICEF and WHO affirm that every child has the fundamental right to grow up in a safe and healthy environment. By prioritizing the health of children’s environments, we can fulfill this right and protect the well-being of every child in the world.
“Children’s developing bodies are particularly vulnerable to environmental hazards and need our protection,” said George Larriea-Adjei, Program Group Director at UNICEF. “Lead poisoning is a devastating example: it can lower IQ and increase aggressive behavior. Health workers are on the front line protecting children from these types of risks.”
The course addresses a pressing need in the health sector, where many providers have limited knowledge of the recognition, assessment and management of environmental diseases in children. Through tailored training materials and resources, including examples of local initiatives, health professionals will be empowered to better address these challenges in their local context.
The WHO/UNICEF partnership underscores a shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of children worldwide by ensuring that health professionals are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to protect the most vulnerable members of society.
For which
Dedicated to the well-being of all people and guided by science, the World Health Organization leads and supports global efforts to give everyone, everywhere, an equal chance at a safe and healthy life. We are the UN health agency that connects nations, partners and people on the front lines in over 150 locations – leading the world’s response to health emergencies, preventing disease, tackling the root causes of health problems and expanding access to medicines and healthcare cares. Our mission is to promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable. www.who.int
For UNICEF
UNICEF works in some of the world’s most difficult places to reach the most disadvantaged children. In more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for all. For more information about UNICEF and our work for children, visit www.unicef.org
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For more information please contact:
WHO media inquiries: [email protected]
UNICEF: Tess Ingram, [email protected]
