Estimating the effects and interactions of extreme heat and pesticides on child health in Ecuador

This project studies how heat and pesticide exposure during pregnancy affect child health and learning in Ecuador, aiming to inform climate adaptation and public health policy through new evidence

This project investigates the combined effects of extreme heat and pesticide exposure during pregnancy on neonatal health and cognitive development in Ecuador. Building on a 3,000-child birth cohort and extensive environmental datasets, the team will analyse how different exposure combinations influence birth outcomes and school performance.

The study integrates satellite-derived thermal stress data with pesticide exposure records and educational outcomes to assess long-term impacts on child development. By comparing four exposure clusters, including a low-exposure control group, the research will generate evidence to inform climate adaptation and public health strategies.

Outcomes include a peer-reviewed publication and two policy workshops with stakeholders, aiming to influence agricultural and environmental policy in Ecuador and other LMICs. The project highlights the urgent need to understand climate-health interactions and supports more equitable, data-driven responses to environmental risks.