“Climate Change and Brain Health: The Urgent Need to Address the Impact on Neurological Conditions”
Climate change is a pressing issue that is not only impacting the environment but also the health of individuals, particularly those with neurological conditions. A recent study led by a team of researchers at UCL has highlighted the potential negative effects of climate change on people with brain conditions, emphasizing the urgent need to understand and address these impacts.
The team, led by Professor Sanjay Sisodiya, conducted a comprehensive review of 332 papers published between 1968 and 2023, focusing on 19 different nervous system conditions, including stroke, migraine, Alzheimer’s, meningitis, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, as well as common psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. The findings suggest that climate change can have a substantial impact on neurological diseases, with extremes of temperature, greater temperature variations, and adverse weather events playing a significant role.
One of the key findings of the study is the association between higher ambient temperatures or heatwaves and an increase in admissions, disability, or mortality due to stroke. People with dementia are also at risk from extremes of temperature and weather events, as cognitive impairment can limit their ability to adapt to environmental changes. The researchers emphasize the importance of considering not only the present state of climate change but also future projections in research on the impact of climate change on brain health.
As adverse weather events become more severe and global temperatures continue to rise, populations are increasingly exposed to environmental factors that may exacerbate brain conditions. The researchers stress the need for up-to-date research that takes into account the evolving climate conditions and their potential impact on brain health. They also highlight the importance of raising awareness about the risks of climate change for neurological healthcare and promoting global collaborative research and adaptation strategies.
The study was funded by the Epilepsy Society and the National Brain Appeal Innovation Fund and is published ahead of The Hot Brain 2: climate change and brain health event, which aims to address the impact of climate change on brain health and promote action against climate change. Overall, the research underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate the effects of climate change on people with neurological conditions and safeguard their health and well-being.