Worldwide, 1.7 million children's deaths are attributable to environmental hazards, such as exposure to contaminated water, indoor and outdoor pollution, and other unsanitary conditions, the reports found. About one quarter of all children’s deaths and diseases in 2012 could have been prevented by reducing environmental risks. The second report quantifies the problem by providing the number of children who died because of exposure to polluted environments. Climate change also contributes to potential environmental risks by, among other things, increasing exposure to pollen and other allergens, which increases the risk of asthma in children. Tobacco smoke, air pollution and indoor mold worsen asthma symptoms in children.

Source: Washington Post March 06, 2017 00:27 UTC