# Climate change impacts on child and youth health

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/climate-change-impacts-on-child-and-youth-health
> Updated: 2026-08-28T23:12:13.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Recent reports highlight the growing health risks posed to children and youth by climate change. In Malaysia, the National Youth Climate Change Survey 2025 found that climate change has become an immediate public health and economic challenge. Among surveyed Malaysians aged 15 to 30, approximately 25.9% reported worsening existing illnesses, while others cited skin conditions, heat-related illnesses, and respiratory problems.

On a global scale, research published in Science Advances indicates that human-induced climate change exposes approximately 560 million children to at least one additional month of dangerous heat stress annually. The study notes that children are physiologically more vulnerable to humid heat, which can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and long-term impacts on cognitive development. These risks are particularly high in tropical regions, including Southeast Asia.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-28: Climate change exposes 560 million children to dangerous annual heat stress

A study shows 560 million children face an extra month of dangerous heat stress annually due to climate change, with high risks in tropical regions like Southeast Asia and West Africa.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/climate-change-exposes-560-million-children-to-dangerous-annual-heat-stress

### 2026-08-09: Malaysia youth face health risks from climate change

A Unicef Malaysia survey reveals climate change is causing significant health issues for youth, including heat-related illnesses and respiratory problems, alongside disruptions to essential services.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/malaysia-youth-face-health-risks-from-climate-change

---
Cite as: Climate change impacts on child and youth health. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/climate-change-impacts-on-child-and-youth-health
