AEROKID: Airborne Exposures and Respiratory Outcomes in KIDs: understanding and predicting pediatric respiratory resilience

The climate crisis acts as a significant risk multiplier for human health, exacerbating the incidence and severity of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). In alignment with the HORIZON-HLTH-2026-01-ENVHLTH-01 topic, AEROKID focuses on the targeted broad focus area of climate-sensitive NCDs, specifically addressing the rising burden of pediatric allergies and asthma.

The project aims to increase the scientific understanding of mechanistic causal pathways by which rising temperatures and CO2 levels alter the human exposome. To achieve this, AEROKID will implement longitudinal studies to collect real-world exposure and health data from diverse pediatric cohorts. These studies will characterize the differential acute and long-term impacts of individual and cascading climatic stressors on children, a highly sensitive population group.

AEROKID leverages innovative technical solutions to support health adaptation. By integrating satellite data from Copernicus with local aeroallergen sensors, the project utilizes AI-driven modeling and Virtual Pediatric Twins to simulate respiratory responses to environmental degradation. These efforts culminate in the development of rapid, portable diagnostic tools and digital Early Warning Systems (EWS) to improve disease management.

Furthermore, the project incorporates Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) to investigate community resilience and socioeconomic determinants of health. Ultimately, AEROKID provides evidence-based, nature-positive policy recommendations tailored to diverse population needs, contributing directly to the European Climate and Health Observatory.