WHO and UNICEF Launch Free Online Course to Address Children’s Environmental Health

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The World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF have launched a free online course "Introduction to Children's Environmental Health", that targets healthcare providers, equipping them to tackle the critical issue of children’s environmental health. As environmental hazards like pollution and climate change increasingly endanger children, this course serves as a vital resource to prepare healthcare professionals to protect the youngest and most vulnerable.

Children are particularly at risk from environmental dangers due to their developing bodies and the greater exposure they often face to harmful pollutants and toxic substances. Shockingly, more than a quarter of all diseases in children under five are linked to poor environmental conditions. This course covers essential topics such as air pollution, lead exposure, e-waste, and the impacts of climate chang, all of which are significant threats to children's health.

Participants will gain the skills to identify and address these environmental risks, leading to better health outcomes for children worldwide. The course offers a comprehensive curriculum, including global and localized threats, with interactive tools, case studies, and quizzes. Healthcare workers, students, and policymakers are encouraged to enroll in this self-paced training.

This initiative by WHO and UNICEF highlights their commitment to every child’s right to a safe and healthy environment. By empowering healthcare providers, this course is a crucial step in safeguarding future generations. 

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and interventions necessary to protect children's health from various environmental hazards. These hazards include air pollution, exposure to chemicals and heavy metals, inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), and the effects of climate change. The course is structured into the following modules:

1. Course Overview

2. Why Children: The Global Environment and Children’s health

3. Chemicals and Children's Health

4. Lead and Children's Health

5. Mercury and Children's Health

6. Pesticides and Children's Health

7. Electrical/Electronic Waste and Children's Health

8. Air pollution and Children's health

9. Global Climate Change and Children's Health

10. Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) and Children's Health

11. The Paediatric Environmental History 

Course Link: WHO & UNICEF Course on Children's Environmental Health