UN climate chief Simon Stiell has warned that extreme heat driven by climate change is increasing health risks for pregnant women and newborns. He spoke ahead of the Pre-COP summit in Nadi, Fiji.
Stiell said rising heat is linked to premature births, stillbirths, low birth weight and complications affecting maternal health. The warning draws on evidence gathered from health workers across five continents.
Health risks linked to rising heat
The reported concerns include risks to both mothers and babies during pregnancy and around birth. Health workers’ observations across five continents informed the warning, highlighting the effects of extreme heat on maternal and newborn health.
Stiell raised the issue ahead of the Pre-COP summit in Nadi, where the climate-related health risks facing pregnant women and newborns are drawing attention.
