BY NUR HANIE MOHD LATIFF International Institute for Halal Research and Training ( INHART ), International Islamic University Malaysia , and Global Centre for Environmental Remediation , College of Science , Engineering and Environment , University of Newcastle , Callaghan , New South Wales , Australia .

AND

SITI NURSHAHIDA NAZLI Department of Environmental Health , Faculty of Health Sciences , UiTM Cawangan Pulau Pinang , Kampus Bertam , Malaysia , and The University of Queensland , Child Health Research Centre , South Brisbane , QLD , Australia .

In April , 2024 , the tragic death of a toddler in Malaysia marks a considerable impact of extreme temperatures . Vietnam has declared heat emergencies , and schools across the Philippines have shut down as temperatures soared . These events starkly remind us that heat waves are not just future threats ; they are a current crisis .

While everyone is vulnerable to extreme heat , children are particularly at risk . Their developing bodies struggle to cope with high temperatures , and their dependence on adults makes them especially exposed . This article explores the harsh reality children face in the age of climate change , examining the health risks , educational disruptions , and urgent actions needed to protect them from escalating heat .

TOLL ON CHILDREN ’ S HEALTH

As the world contends with the mounting impacts of climate change , children face a perilous threat - extreme heat . Currently , an alarming one-third of the world ’ s children - around 559 million - suffer through four to five heat waves annually , enduring extended periods of dangerously high temperatures ( UNICEF , 2023 ). By 2050 , every child on the planet could confront this scorching reality , with severe consequences for their health and well-being .

Children ’ s bodies , still developing , are poorly equipped to handle extreme heat . High temperatures can swiftly lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances , causing dizziness , fatigue , and even lifethreatening heatstroke . Heat-related illnesses , from heat cramps to heat exhaustion , are more prevalent in children and often require hospitalisation .

The health effects of extreme heat on children go far beyond the immediate risks of heatstroke and dehydration . Studies indicate that extreme temperatures can worsen existing conditions like asthma and other respiratory issues and elevate the risk of gastrointestinal illnesses such as diarrhoea . Heat can also lead to accidents and injuries as children become more fatigued and less coordinated in hot weather .

The long-term impacts of repeated

heat exposure during childhood are still being explored , but initial findings suggest significant consequences . Research links childhood heat exposure to a higher risk of chronic diseases later in life , including cardiovascular and respiratory problems .

This means the health burdens from today ’ s heat waves could persist for decades , impacting future generations as they mature into adulthood .

Protecting children from extreme heat is not only an act of compassion but also essential for safeguarding their future health and well-being . As the climate continues to warm , prioritising the health and resilience of our children must be a top priority .

EDUCATIONAL DISRUPTIONS

The impact of heat waves on children ’ s education extends beyond physical health issues . In areas where schools lack proper cooling systems , classrooms can become unbearable during heat waves , hindering concentration and learning .

High temperatures and inadequate hydration are linked to lower school attendance , affecting students ’ ability to concentrate and overall academic performance . In extreme cases , heat waves may force school closures for safety reasons , depriving students of valuable instructional time and worsening educational inequalities .

Furthermore , the stress caused by extreme heat can impair children ’ s cognitive functioning , affecting memory , attention , and problem-solving skills . In response to these challenges , in April 2024 , the Ministry of Education Malaysia advised parents to ensure their children

stay hydrated , especially during the fasting month .

Malaysia has taken proactive steps to protect children from prolonged exposure to hot weather by closing schools , particularly for high-risk groups like children , senior citizens , and those with chronic diseases .

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC DISPARITIES

Heat waves do not impact everyone equally ; they act as a threat multiplier , worsening existing social and economic disparities and disproportionately affecting vulnerable communities . Lowincome families , often living in areas with limited green spaces and abundant heat-trapping concrete , are particularly at risk .

Without access to air conditioning , they may face tough choices between cooling their homes and paying for other necessities , leaving their children more exposed to heat-related illnesses like fever , electrolyte disturbances , and respiratory problems .

Socioeconomic disparities also influence a child ’ s vulnerability to heat even before birth . Studies have linked extreme heat exposure during pregnancy to adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and low birth weight , especially in lower-income groups . These early disadvantages can have lasting impacts on a child ’ s health and development , perpetuating health inequalities .

Political and economic factors can intensify these disparities . In regions like Malaysia , the dominance of the agribusiness sector often leads to insufficient prioritisation of health interventions and environmental