Why are Babies More Vulnerable?

How does air pollution affect babies?

Babies are particularly vulnerable to air pollution because their organ systems are rapidly developing. They also breathe more air per pound compared to adults, meaning their bodies may take in more pollution. Air pollution can harm the health of babies in many ways, such as by interfering with normal lung development and increasing the risk of respiratory infections.

How does climate change affect babies?

Babies are particularly vulnerable to climate change due to many factors. They are more vulnerable to heat-related illness compared to adults, because their temperature regulation systems are not fully developed. They are at risk of injury during extreme weather events, and may be more vulnerable to vector-borne diseases made worse by climate change.

What you can do.

Congress has taken a big step forward to improve Black maternal health by including provisions to improve the health of mothers and their babies in the Build Back Better Act. Among these provisions is one specifically focused on easing the impacts of climate change on Black mothers and babies. Join Moms in telling the Senate to support Black maternal health and pass the Build Back Better Act.

Learn more about how air pollution and climate change affect babies by exploring our resources.

Join us in your state to work to keep the air cleaner and fight climate change.

Resources about Babies