Climate change impacts on maternal and new-born health in Africa: Intervention options

Abstract

Abstract Rising global temperatures raise several health concerns, especially in areas where access is limited to air conditioning and other forms of cooling. Anatomical and physiological changes during pregnancy increase vulnerability of women and foetuses to heat exposure. High temperatures can overwhelm thermoregulation in pregnant women, cause dehydration and endocrine dysfunction, and affect placental function. Clinical consequences include preeclampsia, preterm birth, stillbirth and prolonged labour. Additionally, high ambient temperatures increase risks for several infections and affect health worker performance. There are a range of adaptation options to reduce heat exposure or impacts of exposure during pregnancy. Adaptations can be categorised as behavioural changes, interventions at the health service level, public health measures, building modifications and nature-based solutions, and structural interventions to enhance resilience. Existing maternal and child health services delivery platforms are adept at absorbing new health interventions and could play a key role in new programmes for responding to climate change. We need robust advocacy now more than ever to prevent further environmental harms.