Effects of Climate Change and Air Pollution on Perinatal Health

Abstract

Climate change is often framed as an environmental concern; however, the burning of fossil fuels both directly and indirectly impacts air quality and, thus, human health. Gas byproducts of combustion lead to increased levels of atmospheric ozone and carbon dioxide, which in turn elevate surface temperatures of the earth. This process exposes individuals to respiratory irritants and contributes to increased frequency of natural disasters such as wildfires, negatively impacting respiratory health. Normal physiologic changes in the respiratory system make pregnant people particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. Asthma and allergic rhinitis are 2 common respiratory diseases that can be triggered by poor air quality. Solutions to limit the impact of climate change on respiratory disease include risk mitigation and reduction of fossil fuel consumption on individual, organization, and community levels. Midwives are well positioned as clinicians to educate people about individual strategies to reduce environmental exposure to respiratory irritants and advocate for policy changes to limit future health effects of climate change.

The Heat is On: Imperative for Midwifery Engagement in Climate Change

“…Midwifery faculty and others may freely use the case study in their education programs along with the list of readings provided 7 . Continuing with a practical approach to environment and health effects, Sanders and Davis use a clinical case study to highlight the impacts of climate change and air pollution on perinatal health 8 . Air quality is critical to human health, particularly in pregnancy.…”

“…7 Continuing with a practical approach to environment and health effects, Sanders and Davis use a clinical case study to highlight the impacts of climate change and air pollution on perinatal health. 8 Air quality is critical to human health, particularly in pregnancy. Respiratory physiologic changes during pregnancy are reviewed along with effects of air pollution as the authors provide clinical guidance for managing allergic rhinitis and asthma in pregnancy.…”