Impact of climate change on public health
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58676/sjmas.v3i6.136Keywords:
Health equity, Vector-borne diseases, Heat-related illness, Public health, Climate changeAbstract
Background: Climate change is recognized as one of the greatest global health threats of the 21st century. Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and the increasing frequency of extreme events have profound implications for human health. These include direct effects such as heat-related illnesses and respiratory conditions, as well as indirect consequences like the spread of vector-borne diseases, food insecurity, waterborne infections, and mental health challenges. Vulnerable populations—particularly children, the elderly, and low-income communities—bear the heaviest burden.
Materials and Methods: This paper synthesizes evidence from recent reports, global datasets, and peer-reviewed literature on the health impacts of climate change. Data from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), World Health Organization (WHO), World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and other sources were analyzed to highlight current and projected health outcomes, with emphasis on disparities across regions and populations.
Results: Findings show that climate change already contributes to approximately 13 million deaths annually worldwide. Heatwaves, floods, and wildfires are increasing morbidity and mortality rates, while warmer climates expand the geographical spread of malaria, dengue, and other vector-borne diseases. Food insecurity is expected to rise, placing millions at risk of malnutrition by 2050. Climate change also exacerbates respiratory illnesses through worsened air quality and drives psychological stress, anxiety, and depression, particularly among displaced and marginalized groups.
Conclusion: Climate change is not only an environmental issue but also a pressing public health crisis. Its diverse impacts amplify existing inequalities and strain healthcare systems worldwide. Addressing these challenges requires urgent global cooperation, integrating emission reduction with health-focused adaptation strategies. Strengthening health infrastructure, promoting resilience, and empowering vulnerable communities are essential to safeguarding health in the face of a changing climate.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Badejo Mistura Lyetunde, Dr. Ghassan Salibi, Prof Nikolaos Tzenios
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