Little Patients, Big Impact: Climate Health and Sustainability in Pediatric Otolaryngology

Monday, October 19, 2026

2:30 PM - 3:30 PM PT

Location: 408B

Moderator(s)

Patrick T. Kiessling, MD

Resident Physician
Stanford University
Stanford, CA, United States

Panelist(s)

KM

Kara D. Meister, MD

Assistant Professor
Stanford Medicine
Stanford, CA, United States
Duncan A. Meiklejohn, MD

Associate Professor, Residency Program Director
University of New Mexico
Albuquerque, NM, United States
ML

M Lauren Lalakea, MD

Adjunct Professor
Stanford Medicine
Los Altos, CA, United States

Disclosure(s):

Patrick T. Kiessling, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

Duncan A. Meiklejohn, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

M Lauren Lalakea, MD:

faculty for this accredited education activity has no relationship(s) with ineligible companies to disclose.

This interactive panel will explore how climate change is shaping pediatric otolaryngologic health, with a focus on what clinicians need to know now and where critical evidence gaps remain. Faculty will review emerging and established research linking environmental exposures to pediatric ENT conditions, and translate these findings into practical, patient-centered care with clinical pearls. Attendees will gain a structured framework for discussing climate-related health concerns with children and families in a clear and actionable way. The session will also highlight feasible strategies to advance sustainability in pediatric otolaryngology practice, including approaches to reduce operating room waste and emissions. Audience participation and discussion will be encouraged throughout.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the health impacts of climate change relevant to pediatric otolaryngology, including existing gaps in the literature.
Implement a framework for otolaryngology providers on how to talk to patients and their families about climate change, and deliver education to optimize pediatric otolaryngologic health.
Identify strategies for promoting sustainability within the practice of pediatric otolaryngology, including reducing emissions and waste in the operating room.