How does climate change impact public health?

Climate change impacts public health primarily by exacerbating existing health issues. As the climate changes, it can lead to more frequent and severe heatwaves, natural disasters, and extreme weather that can overwhelm healthcare systems and increase the incidence of diseases. For instance, rising temperatures can worsen air quality, leading to respiratory problems like asthma and other chronic conditions.

Additionally, climate change can affect vector-borne diseases, leading to the spread of illnesses such as malaria and dengue fever as the habitats of the insects that carry these diseases expand. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions, are especially at risk, as they may lack the resources or resilience to cope with these changing conditions.

Addressing the exacerbation of health issues caused by climate change requires a multifaceted approach involving public health initiatives, environmental regulations, and community preparedness to reduce risks and protect health outcomes. This understanding emphasizes the critical link between environmental factors and public health, highlighting the need for integrated strategies to combat both climate change and its health impacts.