1
|
Starkweather K, Ragsdale H, Butler M, Zohora FT, Alam N. High wet-bulb temperatures, time allocation, and diurnal patterns of breastfeeding in Bangladeshi fisher-traders. Ann Hum Biol 2025; 52:2461709. [PMID: 39992293 DOI: 10.1080/03014460.2025.2461709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2024] [Revised: 01/24/2025] [Accepted: 01/26/2025] [Indexed: 02/25/2025]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change is a growing threat to population health, with dangerous combinations of heat and humidity increasing in frequency, particularly in South Asia. Evidence suggests that high temperatures and heat stress influence breastfeeding behaviour and may lead to suboptimal infant and young child nutrition. AIM Few studies have quantified the relationship between ambient heat and breastfeeding. Here we evaluate associations between wet-bulb temperature and daily breastfeeding patterns in a rural community in Bangladesh. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We used 23 months of daily time-diary data from 68 maternal-child dyads and regional wet-bulb temperatures to test the hypothesis that increased heat and humidity negatively influence breastfeeding outcomes among Shodagor fisher-traders. RESULTS We found that higher wet-bulb temperatures predicted reduced daily breastfeeding time allocation, particularly among fishers, and drove shifts towards increased night-time and decreased mid/late morning feeding. Maternal occupation and the interaction of child age with heat strongly influenced diurnal breastfeeding patterns. CONCLUSION These results highlight an important role of maternal work on infants' vulnerability to environmental stress. Dyads' ability to behaviourally compensate for extreme heat may be constrained by extended heatwaves, humidity, and economic circumstances, suggesting that climate change will likely exacerbate heat-related risks to global child health going forward.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathrine Starkweather
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
- Department of Human Behavior, Ecology, and Culture, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Haley Ragsdale
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Margaret Butler
- Center of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health, School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Fatema T Zohora
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Community Health Sciences; School of Public Health, University of Illinois, Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Nurul Alam
- International Center for Diarrheal Disease Research, Bangladesh, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chongwo EJ, Aoko B, Kaniala M, Esala M, Magoma P, Njoroge E, Nyamanya S, Marangu J, Khamis A, Ng’asike J, Huizink AC, Abubakar A. Intersection between individual, household, environmental and system level factors in defining risk and resilience for children in Kenya's ASAL: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0316679. [PMID: 39823504 PMCID: PMC11741590 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0316679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 12/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2025] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Children growing up in arid and semi-arid regions of Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) face heightened risks, often resulting in poor developmental outcomes. In Kenya, the arid and semi-arid lands (ASAL) exhibit the lowest health and developmental indicators among children. Despite these risks, some children grow up successfully and overcome the challenges. However, there is limited comprehensive data on sources of risks and resilience in these children, particularly research that incorporates community perspectives and indigenous knowledge. Systematic documentation of factors influencing child outcomes is crucial for understanding the overall burden, informing policy and implementing targeted interventions. This study aimed at bridging this gap. METHODS The study was conducted in 10 ASAL counties in Kenya. Purposive and snowballing techniques were used to recruit 11 key informants per site with varied levels of involvement in early childhood development and primary caregivers. Using a semi-structured interview guide, 103 telephonic interviews were conducted between June and August 2022, involving 68 key informants and 35 caregivers. Thematic approach was used to analyze the data, using NVIVO software. RESULTS The mean age of the participants was 44years (SD = 11 years). The findings, viewed through the lens of Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory, reveal a complex interplay of contextual factors impacting children's development. These factors range from individual and biological aspects to family, community, systemic, and environmental level, including climatic challenges. Identified risk factors encompassed issues such as young caregiver's age, low literacy, mental health issues, drug abuse, domestic violence, malnutrition, poverty, lack of paternal involvement, early marriages, female genital mutilation, drought, heat stress, and insecurity. Nonetheless, sources of resilience include breastfeeding, immunization, responsive caregiving, family and community support, higher socio-economic status (SES), cultural practices, self-motivation, hard work, community role models, religious activities and quality service provision. CONCLUSION Urgent attention is needed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by children in ASAL regions. The study underscores the importance of addressing the root causes of risks while harnessing community strengths and resources to safeguard and promote the holistic development of these children.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Jebor Chongwo
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Barack Aoko
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Martha Kaniala
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Moses Esala
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Phillis Magoma
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eunice Njoroge
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Susan Nyamanya
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joyce Marangu
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anil Khamis
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- University College London-Institute of Education, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anja C. Huizink
- Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences, Department of Clinical, Neuro- and Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Amina Abubakar
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
- Kenya Medical Research Institute/Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Centre for Geographic Medicine Research (Coast), Kilifi, Kenya
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Haile F, Mohamed JH, Aweke CS, Muleta TT. Impact of Livelihood Diversification on Rural Households' Food and Nutrition Security: Evidence from West Shoa Zone of Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia. Curr Dev Nutr 2025; 9:104521. [PMID: 39896727 PMCID: PMC11787014 DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.104521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 11/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2025] Open
Abstract
Background Food and nutrition insecurities continue to be significant issues for communities in developed and developing countries, even when there are plentiful harvests. In Ethiopia, climate change and other human-induced challenges are key factors contributing to this insecurity. Research and development experts suggest that implementing sustainable livelihood diversification strategies could be a viable solution. Objectives The objective of the study was to analyze the determinants of choice of livelihood diversification strategies and its impact on food and nutrition security among smallholder farmers in the West Shoa zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia. Methods The research employed quantitative approaches for data gathering and analysis. A multistage sampling method was utilized to choose the study locations. A total of 385 smallholder farming households (215 diversifiers and 170 nondiversifiers) were randomly chosen as participants from the 2 districts and 7 rural villages in the area. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, and cross-tabs) and econometric models [multinomial logit model and multinomial endogenous switching regression (MESR) model] were employed to analyze the quantitative data. Results More than half (56%) of the farming households were able to diversify their livelihoods, whereas the remaining 44% were unable to do so, indicating a lack of means to engage in any form of livelihood diversification activity beyond agriculture. The results of the multinomial logit regression model revealed that various factors such as gender, age, family size, education level, farm experience, social norms, land ownership, livestock possession, access to credit, access to extension services, working capital, government policies, climate variability, livelihood training, and proximity to markets significantly influenced smallholder farming households' choices and adoption of diversification strategies. The MESR model demonstrated that engaging in farming and off-farming activities could increase food and nutrition security for farm households by 74.6% and 33.3%, respectively. Similarly, participating in farming and nonfarming activities was associated with a 71.3% improvement in food security and a 42.3% enhancement in nutrition security. However, combining farming with both nonfarm and off-farm activities did not have a significant impact on food security, but it did lead to a 15.2% increase in nutrition security. Conclusions Involving smallholder farmers in livelihood diversification reduces poverty, food insecurity, and unemployment. This study shows that diversifying livelihoods positively impacts food and nutrition security by enabling farmers to produce more for consumption and income generation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Firafis Haile
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Jema Haji Mohamed
- School of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Chanaylew Seyoum Aweke
- School of Rural Development and Agricultural Innovation, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Baschieri A, Udeh C. International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action and climate action: an intersecting agenda. Sex Reprod Health Matters 2024; 32:2468574. [PMID: 40160111 PMCID: PMC12039399 DOI: 10.1080/26410397.2025.2468574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2025] Open
Abstract
2024 marked the 30th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action (PoA) held in Cairo in 1994, which coincided with the year that the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) went into force. Three decades later, these agendas have become increasingly interconnected and climate change has evolved into a climate crisis, as the world undergoes unprecedented demographic changes. How we deal with these unprecedented changes, and the timings of our shared actions, will define our future. This commentary reflects on the principles of the ICPD PoA and argues for their relevance in today's fight for climate justice. To build a just and sustainable world, climate action must be guided by the aspirations of the ICPD PoA, promoting people-centred solutions, protecting human rights, advancing social justice, ensuring the right to health - including sexual and reproductive health and rights for all - and empowering women and youth in climate action and securing a future in which rights and choices are preserved for every individual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Baschieri
- Science Leader on Climate Health Impacts, The Institute of Environmental Science and Research, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Chiagozie Udeh
- Programme Specialist, Climate Adaptation and Innovation, United Nations Population Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cerceo E, Saxer K, Grossman L, Shapley-Quinn K, Feldman-Winter L. The Climate Crisis and Breastfeeding: Opportunities for Resilience. J Hum Lact 2024; 40:33-50. [PMID: 38158719 DOI: 10.1177/08903344231216726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The climate crisis is an emerging global challenge that poses potential risks to breastfeeding practices and outcomes. There are multifaceted effects of climate change affecting the breastfeeding dyad across environmental, societal, and human health dimensions. Breastfeeding support in the face of climate change will require solutions at the structural level-healthcare, community, and workplace settings-and at the mother-infant dyad level. Breastfeeding can additionally be an adaptive response to crisis situations and can mitigate some of the environmental challenges associated with climate change. Despite the undeniable significance of climate change on breastfeeding (and vice versa), our perspective as experts in the field is that this topic has not been systematically addressed. Although we highlight some of the challenges, potential solutions, and co-benefits of breastfeeding in the context of climate change, there are numerous issues that could be further explored and necessitate additional preparedness planning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Cerceo
- Cooper University Healthcare, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, USA
| | | | - Lauren Grossman
- General Internal Medicine and Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | | | - Lori Feldman-Winter
- Cooper University Healthcare, Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, NJ, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lusambili A, Kovats S, Nakstad B, Filippi V, Khaemba P, Roos N, Part C, Luchters S, Chersich M, Hess J, Kadio K, Scorgie F. Too hot to thrive: a qualitative inquiry of community perspectives on the effect of high ambient temperature on postpartum women and neonates in Kilifi, Kenya. BMC Pediatr 2024; 24:36. [PMID: 38216969 PMCID: PMC10787431 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-023-04517-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/14/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To understand community perspectives on the effects of high ambient temperature on the health and wellbeing of neonates, and impacts on post-partum women and infant care in Kilifi. DESIGN Qualitative study using key informant interviews, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant and postpartum women (n = 22), mothers-in-law (n = 19), male spouses (n = 20), community health volunteers (CHVs) (n = 22) and stakeholders from health and government ministries (n = 16). SETTINGS We conducted our research in Kilifi County in Kenya's Coast Province. The area is largely rural and during summer, air temperatures can reach 37˚C and rarely go below 23˚C. DATA ANALYSIS Data were analyzed in NVivo 12, using both inductive and deductive approaches. RESULTS High ambient temperature is perceived by community members to have direct and indirect health pathways in pregnancy and postpartum periods, including on the neonates. The direct impacts include injuries on the neonate's skin and in the mouth, leading to discomfort and affecting breastfeeding and sleeping. Participants described babies as "having no peace". Heat effects were perceived to be amplified by indoor air pollution and heat from indoor cooking fires. Community members believed that exclusive breastfeeding was not practical in conditions of extreme heat because it lowered breast milk production, which was, in turn, linked to a low scarcity of food and time spend by mothers away from their neonates performing household chores. Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) was also negatively affected. Participants reported that postpartum women took longer to heal in the heat, were exhausted most of the time and tended not to attend postnatal care. CONCLUSIONS High ambient temperatures affect postpartum women and their neonates through direct and indirect pathways. Discomfort makes it difficult for the mother to care for the baby. Multi-sectoral policies and programs are required to mitigate the negative impacts of high ambient temperatures on maternal and neonatal health in rural Kilifi and similar settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adelaide Lusambili
- Environmental Health and Governance Center, Leadership and Governance Hub, School of Business, Africa International University, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Sari Kovats
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Britt Nakstad
- Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Veronique Filippi
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Peter Khaemba
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nathalie Roos
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Division, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cherie Part
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of International Public Health, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
| | - Matthew Chersich
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jeremy Hess
- Emergency Medicine, Env & Occ Health Sciences, and Global Health, University of Washington, Washington, USA
| | - Kadidiatou Kadio
- Institute de Recherche en Siences de la Santé, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | - Fiona Scorgie
- Wits Reproductive Health and HIV Institute (Wits RHI), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sundaresan A, Uddin R, Sorensen C. The impacts of climate migration on perinatal health and opportunities to safeguard perinatal well-being. Semin Perinatol 2023; 47:151845. [PMID: 37865558 DOI: 10.1016/j.semperi.2023.151845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
The disparate health consequences of climate change and migration have been separately explored, and the gendered impacts of climate change have been previously established. Nonetheless, there is limited research on the specific nexus of climate change-migration-sexual and reproductive health (SRH). This chapter reviews specific vulnerabilities faced by women and infants throughout the perinatal period, and how these are affected by climate change-induced migration in different migratory contexts. The available literature refers to antenatal and postnatal care utilization, access to water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, childbirth and delivery challenges, and infant feeding barriers, amongst other concerns. The discussion explored in this chapter highlights the need to develop disaster frameworks that reflect the heterogeneity of outcomes related to specific and unique climate migration contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Raisa Uddin
- University of Utah Global, Rural and Underserved Child Health Fellowship, United States
| | - Cecilia Sorensen
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, United States; Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia Irving Medical Center, United States; Global Consortium on Climate and Health Education, Columbia University, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Leong M, Karr CJ, Shah SI, Brumberg HL. Before the first breath: why ambient air pollution and climate change should matter to neonatal-perinatal providers. J Perinatol 2023; 43:1059-1066. [PMID: 36038659 PMCID: PMC9421104 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-022-01479-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Common outdoor air pollutants present threats to fetal and neonatal health, placing neonatal-perinatal clinical specialists in an important role for harm reduction through patient counseling and advocacy. Climate change is intertwined with air pollution and influences air quality. There is increasing evidence demonstrating the unique vulnerability in the development of adverse health consequences from exposures during the preconception, prenatal, and early postnatal periods, as well as promising indications that policies aimed at addressing these toxicants have improved birth outcomes. Advocacy by neonatal-perinatal providers articulating the potential impact of pollutants on newborns and mothers is essential to promoting improvements in air quality and reducing exposures. The goal of this review is to update neonatal-perinatal clinical specialists on the key ambient air pollutants of concern, their sources and health effects, and to outline strategies for protecting patients and communities from documented adverse health consequences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Leong
- Division of Neonatology, Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, Westchester Medical Center and Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA.
| | - Catherine J Karr
- Departments of Pediatrics and Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences and Northwest Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Shetal I Shah
- Division of Neonatology, Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, Westchester Medical Center and Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| | - Heather L Brumberg
- Division of Neonatology, Maria Fareri Children's Hospital, Westchester Medical Center and Department of Pediatrics, New York Medical College, Valhalla, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Sarkar SM, Dhar BK, Fahlevi M, Ahmed S, Hossain MJ, Rahman MM, Gazi MAI, Rajamani R. Climate Change and Aging Health in Developing Countries. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2023; 7:2200246. [PMID: 37635700 PMCID: PMC10448126 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.202200246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The climate of the Earth has changed throughout history. Climate change negatively impacts human rights in a wide range of ways. The study aims to find out the impact of climate change on aging health in developing countries. The study found that public health will be devastated if climate change continues unabated. Countries that are least responsible for global warming are most susceptible to the effects of higher temperatures, such as death and disease. In low- and middle-income countries, disasters are more likely to happen to people aged 60 and over. Although climate change affects all of us, older people are especially at risk from it, as evidenced by a growing body of research. The study also offers countermeasures and suggestions to develop aging health in developing countries affected by climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Bablu Kumar Dhar
- Department of Business AdministrationDaffodil International UniversityDhakaSavar1340Bangladesh
- Business Administration DivisionMahidol University International CollegeMahidol UniversitySalaya73170Thailand
| | - Mochammad Fahlevi
- Management DepartmentBINUS Online LearningBina Nusantara UniversityJakarta11480Indonesia
| | - Selim Ahmed
- World School of BusinessWorld University of BangladeshDhakaDhaka1230Bangladesh
| | - Md. Jamal Hossain
- Department of PharmacyState University of Bangladesh77 Satmasjid Road, DhakaDhanmondi1205Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Meshbahur Rahman
- Department of BiostatisticsNational Institute of Preventive and Social Medicine (NIPSOM)Dhaka 1212Bangladesh
| | | | - Ranjithkumar Rajamani
- Faculty of Health and Life SciencesINTI International UniversityPersiaran Perdana BBN, Putra NilaiNilaiNegeri Sembilan71800Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Pérez‐Escamilla R, Moran VH. Maternal and child nutrition must be at the heart of the climate change agendas. MATERNAL & CHILD NUTRITION 2023; 19:e13444. [PMID: 36259528 PMCID: PMC9749600 DOI: 10.1111/mcn.13444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rafael Pérez‐Escamilla
- Yale School of Public HealthNew HavenCT06510USA
- Maternal and Child Nutrition co‐Editors‐In‐Chief
| | - Victoria Hall Moran
- Maternal and Child Nutrition co‐Editors‐In‐Chief
- Centre for Global DevelopmentUniversity of Central LancashirePrestonPR1 2HEUK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tiwari I, Tilstra M, Campbell SM, Nielsen CC, Hodgins S, Osornio Vargas AR, Whitfield K, Sapkota BP, Yamamoto SS. Climate change impacts on the health of South Asian children and women subpopulations - A scoping review. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10811. [PMID: 36203903 PMCID: PMC9529585 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives Climate change impacts are felt unequally worldwide; populations that experience geographical vulnerability, those living in small island states and densely populated coastal areas, and children and women are affected disproportionately. This scoping review aims to synthesize evidence from relevant studies centred on South Asia, identify research gaps specifically focused on children and women's health, and contribute to knowledge about South Asia's existing mitigation and adaptation strategies. Methods A research librarian executed the search on six databases using controlled vocabulary (e.g., MeSH, Emtree, etc.) and keywords representing the concepts "vulnerable populations" and "climate change" and "health impacts" and "South Asia." Databases were searched from January 2010 to May 2020. Papers were screened independently by two researchers. Results Forty-two studies were included, of which 23 were based in India, 14 in Bangladesh, and five in other South Asian countries. Nineteen studies focused on meteorological factors as the primary exposure. In contrast, thirteen focused on extreme weather events, nine on air pollution, and one on salinity in coastal areas. Thirty-four studies focused on the health impacts on children related to extreme weather events, meteorological factors, and air pollution, while only eight studies looked at health impacts on women. Undernutrition, ARI (acute respiratory infection), diarrheal diseases, low birth weight, and premature mortality were the major health impacts attributed to extreme weather events, meteorological factors, and air pollution exposure in children and women in the region. Conclusion Extreme weather events, meteorological factors and air pollution have affected the health of children and women in South Asia. However, the gap in the literature across the South Asian countries concerning relationships between exposure to extreme weather events, meteorological factors, air pollution and health effects, including mental health problems in children and women, are opportunities for future work.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ishwar Tiwari
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - McKenzie Tilstra
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Sandra M. Campbell
- John W. Scott Health Science Library, University of Alberta, Edmonton AB, T6G 2R7, Canada
| | - Charlene C. Nielsen
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Stephen Hodgins
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Alvaro R. Osornio Vargas
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| | - Kyle Whitfield
- School of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Science, University of Alberta, 116 & 85 Ave, Edmonton, AB
| | - Bhim Prasad Sapkota
- Center for International Health, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, Munich, Germany
- Ministry of Health and Population, Government of Nepal, Ram Shah Path, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Shelby S. Yamamoto
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Jiang S, Liu J, Qi X, Wang R, Wang X, Wang K, Xu Q, Chen P, Meng N, Wu Q, Shan L. Global, Regional, and National Estimates of Nutritional Deficiency Burden among Reproductive Women from 2010 to 2019. Nutrients 2022; 14:832. [PMID: 35215481 PMCID: PMC8877546 DOI: 10.3390/nu14040832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Women of reproductive age (15-49 years) are often considered a vulnerable population affected by nutritional deficiencies, impairing their health and that of their offspring. We briefly introduced (a) the incidence and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) trends from 2010 to 2019 and (b) the correlation between sex differences and income levels and nutritional deficiencies of reproductive women firstly. Notably, the burden of overall nutritional deficiencies among reproductive women remained generally stable from 2010 to 2019, whereas the iodine and vitamin A deficiencies as a subcategory were associated with increased incidence rates and DALYs, respectively. A significant increasing trend occurred in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Turkey for incidence, and Western Sub-Saharan Africa and Zimbabwe had a strong increase for DALYs. Further analysis of the correlation between nutritional deficiency incidence and economic capacity showed that they were not correlated with the income of women themselves, as was the result of income difference with men. The results of this study will help to identify gaps in nutritional deficiency burden among reproductive women and facilitate the development of regional or national responses. Compared with economic capital, macroscopic political guarantees and social and cultural capital are important measures to remedy the nutritional deficiencies of reproductive women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shengchao Jiang
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Jingjing Liu
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xinye Qi
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Rizhen Wang
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Xing Wang
- The Fourth Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310014, China;
| | - Kexin Wang
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Qiao Xu
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Peiwen Chen
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Nan Meng
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Qunhong Wu
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| | - Linghan Shan
- Department of Health Policy, Health Management College, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150081, China; (S.J.); (J.L.); (X.Q.); (R.W.); (K.W.); (Q.X.); (P.C.); (N.M.)
- Department of Social Medicine, School of Public Health, Harbin Medical University Harbin, Harbin 150081, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Nakstad B, Filippi V, Lusambili A, Roos N, Scorgie F, Chersich MF, Luchters S, Kovats S. How Climate Change May Threaten Progress in Neonatal Health in the African Region. Neonatology 2022; 119:644-651. [PMID: 35850106 DOI: 10.1159/000525573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Climate change is likely to have wide-ranging impacts on maternal and neonatal health in Africa. Populations in low-resource settings already experience adverse impacts from weather extremes, a high burden of disease from environmental exposures, and limited access to high-quality clinical care. Climate change is already increasing local temperatures. Neonates are at high risk of heat stress and dehydration due to their unique metabolism, physiology, growth, and developmental characteristics. Infants in low-income settings may have little protection against extreme heat due to housing design and limited access to affordable space cooling. Climate change may increase risks to neonatal health from weather disasters, decreasing food security, and facilitating infectious disease transmission. Effective interventions to reduce risks from the heat include health education on heat risks for mothers, caregivers, and clinicians; nature-based solutions to reduce urban heat islands; space cooling in health facilities; and equitable improvements in housing quality and food systems. Reductions in greenhouse gas emissions are essential to reduce the long-term impacts of climate change that will further undermine global health strategies to reduce neonatal mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Britt Nakstad
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Health, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana.,Division of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Adelaide Lusambili
- Institute for Human Development, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Nathalie Roos
- Department of Medicine, Clinical Epidemiology Division, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Fiona Scorgie
- University of Witswatersand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | | | - Stanley Luchters
- Institute for Human Development, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sari Kovats
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Heat Stress Impact on Yield and Composition of Quinoa Straw under Mediterranean Field Conditions. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10050955. [PMID: 34064669 PMCID: PMC8150704 DOI: 10.3390/plants10050955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is receiving increasing attention globally due to the high nutritional value of its seeds, and the ability of this crop to cope with stress. In the current climate change scenario, valorization of crop byproducts is required to support a climate-smart agriculture. Furthermore, research works characterizing and evaluating quinoa stems and their putative uses are scarce. In this work, straw yield and composition, and the relative feed value of five quinoa varieties, were analyzed in two consecutive years (2017-2018) under field conditions in Southwestern Europe. High temperatures were recorded during the 2017 growing season resulting in significantly decreased straw yield and improved feed value, associated with compositional changes under elevated temperatures. Crude protein, ash, phosphorus, and calcium contents were higher under high temperatures, whereas fiber contents decreased. The relative feed value was also higher in 2017 and differed among varieties. Differences among varieties were also found in straw yield, and contents of phosphorus, potassium, and calcium. Overall, the results presented here support a sustainable quinoa productive system by encouraging straw valorization and shedding light on the mechanisms underlying heat-stress responses in this crop.
Collapse
|
15
|
Bryson JM, Patterson K, Berrang-Ford L, Lwasa S, Namanya DB, Twesigomwe S, Kesande C, Ford JD, Indigenous Health Adaptation to Climate Change Research Team, Harper SL. Seasonality, climate change, and food security during pregnancy among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women in rural Uganda: Implications for maternal-infant health. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0247198. [PMID: 33760848 PMCID: PMC7990176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0247198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Climate change is expected to decrease food security globally. Many Indigenous communities have heightened sensitivity to climate change and food insecurity for multifactorial reasons including close relationships with the local environment and socioeconomic inequities which increase exposures and challenge adaptation to climate change. Pregnant women have additional sensitivity to food insecurity, as antenatal undernutrition is linked with poor maternal-infant health. This study examined pathways through which climate change influenced food security during pregnancy among Indigenous and non-Indigenous women in rural Uganda. Specific objectives were to characterize: 1) sensitivities to climate-associated declines in food security for pregnant Indigenous women; 2) women's perceptions of climate impacts on food security during pregnancy; and 3) changes in food security and maternal-infant health over time, as observed by women. METHODS Using a community-based research approach, we conducted eight focus group discussions-four in Indigenous Batwa communities and four in non-Indigenous communities-in Kanungu District, Uganda, on the subject of climate and food security during pregnancy. Thirty-six women with ≥1 pregnancy participated. Data were analysed using a constant comparative method and thematic analysis. RESULTS Women indicated that food insecurity was common during pregnancy and had a bidirectional relationship with antenatal health issues. Food security was thought to be decreasing due to weather changes including extended droughts and unpredictable seasons harming agriculture. Women linked food insecurity with declines in maternal-infant health over time, despite improved antenatal healthcare. While all communities described food security struggles, the challenges Indigenous women identified and described were more severe. CONCLUSIONS Programs promoting women's adaptive capacity to climate change are required to improve food security for pregnant women and maternal-infant health. These interventions are particularly needed in Indigenous communities, which often face underlying health inequities. However, resiliency among mothers was strong and, with supports, they can reduce food security challenges in a changing climate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia M. Bryson
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kaitlin Patterson
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lea Berrang-Ford
- Priestley International Centre for Climate, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Shuaib Lwasa
- Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Didacus B. Namanya
- Department of Community Health, Ugandan Ministry of Health, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | | | - James D. Ford
- Priestley International Centre for Climate, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sherilee L. Harper
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| |
Collapse
|