Author: Lauren Sprouse
Urban environments are becoming increasingly populated, with over half of the world’s population living in cities today. By 2045, the global urban population is projected to reach 6 billion. A new study by Fernandez-Barres, et. al. suggests that urban environments can significantly impact children’s engagement in healthy behaviors such as physical activity and sleep.
The World Health Organization recommends that children get 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per day, yet more than half of children worldwide do not meet this guideline. As screen time increases and physical activity decreases, the risk of noncommunicable diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes also rises.
Children are especially susceptible to the health effects of environmental exposures due to their developing brains and immune systems. Factors like polluted roads, low walkability, and limited play space can contribute to unhealthy behaviors and sedentary lifestyles in children.
Research on urban environments and children’s health is a growing field, with studies demonstrating the significant impact of city characteristics on children’s health and behaviors. For example, the amount of green space in a city can affect children’s physical activity levels and mental health.
The study draws on data from the Human Early Life Exposome (HELIX) study, which assesses environmental exposures and health outcomes in children from birth through their lifetime. The researchers found that cities with more green spaces and community facilities tend to promote healthier behaviors in children, while densely populated areas may discourage physical activity.
In conclusion, city planning policies should consider how urban environments impact children’s health. More green spaces and community facilities can lead to improved health behaviors in children. NIEHS is dedicated to supporting research on children’s environmental health and raising awareness about environmental health challenges faced by children worldwide. Lead Exposures Subcommittee and Asthma Disparities Subcommittee: Addressing Environmental Health Challenges
The Lead Exposures Subcommittee, a vital component of the Federal Lead Action Plan (FLAP), plays a crucial role in reducing childhood lead exposures. According to Leith States, Chief Medical Officer at the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for Health, and Co-Chair of the Task Force Senior Steering Committee, the Task Force has long prioritized reducing childhood lead exposures. While there is no safe level of lead in children’s blood, the blood-lead reference value (BLRV) has been instrumental in identifying communities with elevated lead exposure levels. One of the key actions outlined in the FLAP is the evaluation and updating of the BLRV as part of a comprehensive government-wide effort to enhance lead safety and improve children’s health outcomes.
Children residing in urban settings may face additional health challenges, such as asthma. The Asthma Disparities Subcommittee, led by Grace Robiou, Acting Director of the EPA Office of Children’s Health Protection, and Co-Chair of the Task Force Senior Steering Committee, is dedicated to quantifying asthma burdens in communities and finding effective strategies to address them. The subcommittee introduced the Federal Action Plan to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Asthma Disparities, offering a roadmap for federal partners to collaborate with local communities in tackling the root causes of health disparities among children with asthma.
In conclusion, the Lead Exposures Subcommittee and the Asthma Disparities Subcommittee are instrumental in addressing environmental health challenges and promoting the well-being of children. By implementing targeted strategies outlined in the FLAP and the Federal Action Plan to Reduce Racial and Ethnic Asthma Disparities, these subcommittees are working towards creating safer and healthier environments for all. Join us in our efforts to improve children’s health outcomes and reduce disparities in environmental health.
