Climate Change Intensifies Diarrhoea Risk in Asian Children

Climate change is exacerbating the risk of diarrhoea among children under five in south and southeast Asia. A study links increased disease risks to temperature extremes, reduced rainfall, and insufficient maternal education, stressing the need for improved sanitation, education, and access to clean water to better safeguard children's health.

Climate change is significantly intensifying the risk of diarrhoea, a leading cause of death in children under five, across south and southeast Asia, including India, according to a comprehensive study.

Australian researchers, including those from Flinders University, analyzed data on over three million children from national surveys across eight Asian countries, finding an alarming correlation between climate factors and diarrhoeal prevalence.

Key findings highlight that temperature extremes and decreased rainfall are primary climate-related factors. Furthermore, insufficient maternal education and inadequate sanitation infrastructure compound the risk, emphasizing the urgent need for educational investments and improved water access.

(With inputs from agencies.)