How do critical periods of child development influence the integration of vulnerability, susceptibility, and equity into the child perspective of the exposome?

To propose and adopt a child perspective to the exposome, we articulate the concepts of vulnerability, including the notions of susceptibility and equity.

This perspective acknowledges that children are uniquely vulnerable to various exposures due to their ongoing development and growth. In particular, brain development is a critical focus, as it undergoes extensive changes during childhood.

We discuss how these changes make children especially susceptible to environmental influences during specific critical periods.

These critical periods are times when the brain is particularly sensitive to external factors, which can have lasting effects on cognitive, emotional, and physical development. By incorporating the concepts of vulnerability and susceptibility, we emphasize the importance of equitable interventions and protective measures to support healthy development during these crucial stages. This child-centric approach to the exposome highlights the need for policies and practices that address the unique needs and challenges faced by children, ensuring their environments promote optimal growth and development.