Addressing the Intersection of Climate Change and Noncommunicable Diseases: A Global Health Crisis

Climate change is a pressing issue that is not only impacting the environment but also human health in a variety of ways. The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified climate change as the single biggest health threat facing humanity, with health professionals worldwide already responding to the health harms caused by this crisis. The impacts of climate change on human health are vast and far-reaching, threatening the essential ingredients of good health such as clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food supply, and safe shelter.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health concern, responsible for 41 million deaths each year, equivalent to 74% of all deaths globally. These diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, are exacerbated by climate change. The intertwining of climate change and the epidemic of NCDs erodes gains in health and development, hitting poor and marginalized populations the hardest.

Climate change impacts on health are diverse and include death and illness from extreme weather events, air pollution, wildfires, droughts, floods, and mental health issues. Vulnerable populations, such as women, children, ethnic minorities, and those with underlying health conditions, are disproportionately affected by these climate-related health risks. Small island developing states (SIDS) are among the countries hardest hit by climate change, despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions.

However, there is hope for addressing these challenges through synergistic interventions that can combat both climate change and NCDs. Action to combat climate change can lead to significant improvements in public health, with the benefits outweighing the costs. Measures such as promoting clean energy and transport, encouraging healthy diets, and building climate-resilient health systems can have positive impacts on both health and the environment.

The WHO is actively involved in promoting climate actions to improve health for all, including safeguarding nature, ensuring access to clean air and water, promoting a healthy energy transition, and building resilient health systems. The organization is also calling for individuals impacted by NCDs and climate change to share their stories and join the campaign to raise awareness of these interconnected issues.

In conclusion, climate change is a significant threat to human health, exacerbating the burden of noncommunicable diseases and disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated action at the global level to mitigate the impacts of climate change, promote public health, and build resilient health systems for a sustainable future.