Article type
Abstract
Background: The intricate relationship between adolescent health and climate change is an evolving area of concern within the global landscape. Adolescents are a vulnerable population, and they face unique challenges exacerbated by the impacts of climate change on physical and mental well-being. This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the available evidence on the impact of climate change on adolescents' health by generating an evidence gap map (EGM) to address knowledge gaps and highlight areas for interventions.
Methods: We searched for global studies focusing on adolescents aged 10 to 25 using different databases such as Medline, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, and Scopus. Two independent reviewers completed the screening using COVIDENCE software and critical appraisal of included studies was performed using critical appraisal tools. The EGM was constructed through EPPI Mapper, which presents a comprehensive overview of climate events and their outcomes on adolescents' health in rows and columns. The study protocol was registered in INPLASY (#INPLASY202410119).
Findings: We included 44 studies that explored the impact of climate on adolescents' health. This EGM found that all regions of the world are affected by climate change, and adolescents are at the greatest risk of adverse mental health (studies). Earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes were the major climate events impacting adolescents' health and well-being globally (37 studies). Adolescents were most vulnerable in Asia (35 studies). However, more research is needed in Africa, Australia, and South America (one study each).
Conclusion: The systematic examination of studies illuminates specific areas where substantial evidence is lacking, offering crucial insights for guiding future research initiatives and developing targeted interventions at the intersection of adolescent health and climate change.
Methods: We searched for global studies focusing on adolescents aged 10 to 25 using different databases such as Medline, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL, and Scopus. Two independent reviewers completed the screening using COVIDENCE software and critical appraisal of included studies was performed using critical appraisal tools. The EGM was constructed through EPPI Mapper, which presents a comprehensive overview of climate events and their outcomes on adolescents' health in rows and columns. The study protocol was registered in INPLASY (#INPLASY202410119).
Findings: We included 44 studies that explored the impact of climate on adolescents' health. This EGM found that all regions of the world are affected by climate change, and adolescents are at the greatest risk of adverse mental health (studies). Earthquakes, hurricanes, and tornadoes were the major climate events impacting adolescents' health and well-being globally (37 studies). Adolescents were most vulnerable in Asia (35 studies). However, more research is needed in Africa, Australia, and South America (one study each).
Conclusion: The systematic examination of studies illuminates specific areas where substantial evidence is lacking, offering crucial insights for guiding future research initiatives and developing targeted interventions at the intersection of adolescent health and climate change.