Introduction to the Study
In January 2024, researchers at Aga Khan University (AKU) in Pakistan launched a four-year project to explore the impact of extreme heat on maternal and child health. While similar studies have been conducted globally, there has been limited research in Pakistan despite the increasing frequency of heatwaves across South Asia due to human-induced climate change.
Research Focus on Extreme Heat and Maternal Health
Assistant Professor Jai Das from AKU’s Department of Paediatrics and Child Health is leading this study, which compares the health outcomes of women pregnant during hot months to those pregnant in milder weather. The project, funded by the Wellcome Trust, aims to collect data from 6,000 women across Sindh’s districts, including Karachi’s low-income areas.
Challenges of Extreme Heat on Pregnant Women
Women in densely populated urban areas face unique challenges, including the expectation to cook in small, poorly ventilated spaces during pregnancy. The rising temperatures, projected to increase by 2-5ËšC by 2100 in Sindh, exacerbate these challenges. This study will help determine the role these factors play in maternal and child health.
Maternal Health Vulnerability in a Climate-Impacted Region
Pakistan is ranked as the eighth most vulnerable country to climate impacts, with water scarcity significantly affecting women. In regions like Tharparkar, women carry heavy loads of water over long distances, even during pregnancy. This adds to the stress on maternal health in a country already grappling with high neonatal mortality rates.
Linking Heat Stress to Maternal and Child Health Outcome
Experts, including AKU’s Nadeem Zuberi and obstetrician Safia Manzoor, emphasize the urgent need to study the link between heat stress and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as pre-term births. The study aims to move beyond anecdotal evidence to identify specific exposures to extreme heat and their impact on pregnancy outcomes.
Conclusion and Future Implications
This research will provide critical insights into developing strategies and interventions to protect vulnerable populations by analysing how heat stress affects pregnant women and their babies. Furthermore, this study is a significant step towards understanding and mitigating the health impacts of extreme heat on mothers and children in Pakistan. In addition, it highlights the urgent need for targeted measures to address these challenges.
Ultimately, the findings will contribute to more effective public health policies and support systems for affected communities.
