climate change on human health

Climate change profoundly impacts human health through various direct and indirect pathways, exacerbating existing health challenges and creating new risks globally. Rising temperatures contribute to heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like the elderly and outdoor workers.

Changes in weather patterns lead to increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, which cause injuries, displacement, and mental health issues such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Climate change also influences the spread of infectious diseases as changing temperatures and precipitation patterns alter the habitats and behaviors of disease-carrying vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks. This affects the transmission dynamics of diseases like malaria, dengue fever, Zika virus, and Lyme disease.

Furthermore, air pollution, exacerbated by climate change and fossil fuel combustion, contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Rising carbon dioxide levels can also reduce the nutritional value of staple crops, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients like zinc and iron, which are critical for human health.

Addressing climate change requires comprehensive strategies to mitigate emissions, adapt to impacts, and protect human health. By promoting clean energy, sustainable urban planning, resilient infrastructure, and health equity, societies can mitigate climate-related health risks and build healthier and more resilient communities for the future.