Writer： admin Time：2022-07-01 21:35:00 Browse：96℃
Introduction: In recent years, the well-being and future of children have become increasingly threatened by various global challenges. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the new threats to children's health and highlight the urgent need for action. From climate change and pollution to marketing of unhealthy products and violence, these threats require immediate attention and concerted efforts from governments, organizations, and individuals alike.
Environmental Threats: Greenhouse gas emissions and climate change pose an existential threat to all children. Rising sea levels, extreme weather events, water and food insecurity, heat stress, emerging infectious diseases, and large-scale population migration are already affecting millions of children worldwide. Urgent action is required to reduce carbon emissions and implement the provisions of the Paris Agreement to mitigate these risks.
Air Pollution and Respiratory Health: Indoor and outdoor air pollution contribute to an estimated 7 million deaths annually, with children being particularly vulnerable. Exposure to air pollution impairs lung and brain function, increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome throughout a child's life. Efforts to improve air quality and reduce pollution are crucial to protect children's respiratory health.
Obesity and Non-communicable Diseases: Childhood obesity has become a major public health challenge, with the number of affected children and adolescents rising dramatically over the past few decades. Harmful commercial marketing plays a significant role in promoting addictive substances and unhealthy commodities, including fast food, sugary beverages, and online gambling services. These marketing practices contribute to obesity, chronic diseases, and negative impacts on mental health and school achievement.
Breastmilk Substitutes and Commercialization: The marketing and inappropriate use of breastmilk substitutes, a multi-billion-dollar industry, have detrimental effects on children's health. Studies link formula milk to lowered intelligence, obesity, increased risk of diabetes, and other non-communicable diseases. The societal cost of this issue is estimated to be significant. Efforts to regulate and address the marketing of breastmilk substitutes are necessary to protect children's well-being.
Injuries, Violence, and Conflict: Road injuries are the leading cause of death among children and young people aged five to 29. Shockingly, more than 1 billion children, representing half of all children, are exposed to violence each year. Additionally, conflicts, violence, and inequities have forced millions of children to become internally displaced persons, migrants, or refugees, further endangering their health and well-being.
Action Needed: To ensure a healthy future for children, several critical actions must be taken. First, children should be at the center of every policy related to the Sustainable Development Goals. Urgent efforts are required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. Multisectoral action, coordinated at the highest levels of government, is crucial. Increased funding and political prioritization of children, along with their active involvement in decision-making processes, are essential. Furthermore, new national and international regulations are needed to curb harmful commercial marketing. Improved data reporting on children's health and well-being will provide valuable insights for targeted interventions.
Conclusion: Investing in children's health, education, and well-being yields significant benefits for societies. However, the current state of children's health is under threat from various factors, including climate change, pollution, unhealthy lifestyles, violence, and inequality. Immediate action is required to mitigate these risks and secure a healthy future for children worldwide. By addressing these challenges head-on and implementing comprehensive strategies, we can safeguard children's well-being and ensure a brighter tomorrow.