Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) to Support Climate and Health Research: Lessons Learned

Background Climate change is a serious threat to pediatric health, resulting in respiratory and cardiovascular disease, cancer, and mental stress and anxiety. We present the creation of a Youth Advisory Panel (YAP) to gather youth perspectives on the health impacts of climate change in New York State (NYS), providing details on program creation and sharing youth insights. Methods Fourteen youth (ages 14-21) were recruited from across NYS, ensuring statewide representation and Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) inclusion. The panel was developed by an interdisciplinary and diverse group of facilitators. Four virtual participant-guided sessions were held, with data collected from real-time feedback and pre- and post-meeting evaluation surveys. Sessions included skills training exercises (Photovoice, SWOT Analysis) to encourage the development of youth as community leaders. Results The YAP engaged youth from underrepresented, BIPOC, and rural communities across NYS. Physical and mental health impacts (i.e. asthma, fear) were reported, socioeconomic disparities were acknowledged, and the need for both community-level interventions and large-scale climate policies were emphasized. Additionally, youth expressed a desire to speak with peers about the health impacts of climate change and professionals about career development. Conclusion The YAP successfully demonstrated using a participatory youth advisory structure to increase understanding of the impact of climate change on pediatric health. Participants shared personal experiences, highlighted the role of community interventions and policies in climate adaptation, and connected with peers statewide to discuss climate challenges and solutions.