The first 1,000 days of life play a crucial role in shaping a child’s future. But what happens when those days are spent in extreme heat?
A new study, Extreme Heat Exposure in the First 1000 Days: Implications for Childhood Stunting in Bangladesh, has found a direct link between rising temperatures and childhood stunting. Despite Bangladesh’s significant progress in reducing stunting from 42% in 2012 to 28% in 2019 climate change now poses a serious threat to these gains.
Extreme heat, defined as temperatures exceeding historical norms, disrupts critical biological processes. A mere 1% increase in extreme heat days raises the likelihood of stunting by 56%. Exposure after birth has an even stronger impact 67% compared to 28% for in-utero exposure.
Babies born to mothers facing high temperatures during pregnancy experience reduced oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to low birth weight and preterm births, both of which elevate stunting risks. Infants struggle with thermoregulation, leading to higher energy demands and reduced appetite. Heat also increases diarrhea-related illnesses, further worsening malnutrition.
If current trends persist, Bangladesh could see a 33% rise in extreme heat days by 2050, exacerbating the crisis.
Bangladesh isn’t alone in facing this challenge. Studies in West Africa have shown that a 2°C temperature increase correlates with a 7.4% rise in stunting prevalence. Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue it’s a direct public health crisis.
Urgent Action Needed
Addressing climate-driven stunting requires a multi-sectoral approach:
- Health Sector: Train healthcare workers to manage heat-related risks for mothers and infants.
- Water & Nutrition: Expand access to safe drinking water, hydration programs, and food security initiatives.
- Maternal Support: Strengthen breastfeeding programs to counter maternal dehydration and heat stress.
- Climate-Smart Agriculture: Secure food supply chains against rising temperatures.
- Social Protection: Implement cash transfers and food assistance to help families recover from climate shocks.
- Early Warning Systems: Develop heat alerts to help communities prepare for extreme temperatures.
Bangladesh has overcome public health crises before, but climate change presents an unprecedented challenge. Without immediate action, millions of children could suffer from poor growth, cognitive impairments, and long-term economic setbacks. Governments, policymakers, and civil society must prioritize climate resilience in maternal and child health strategies—before it’s too late.