Understanding the Link Between Climate Change and Your Health

Climate change and personal health may seem like separate issues, but they are more closely connected than you might think. As our planet warms due to increased levels of human-made carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, we are witnessing the direct impact on human health in many parts of the world, including the United States.

The Consequences of a Warming Planet

As temperatures rise, we face numerous health risks, such as:

• Coastal flooding, leading to homelessness, the spread of infectious diseases, and psychological trauma

• Unstable weather patterns, including more frequent and severe storms, droughts, heat waves, and forest fires

• Food insecurity due to droughts and damage to marine life

These consequences disproportionately affect less affluent people and impoverished nations, exacerbating poverty, malnutrition, and armed conflicts.

Climate Change and the Spread of Infectious Diseases

Climate change can alter the patterns and territories of infectious diseases, making it harder for healthcare systems to contain them. Some examples include:

• Diseases carried by animals and insects, such as Lyme disease, West Nile virus, and Zika

• Waterborne infections, like cholera and other gastrointestinal illnesses

Taking Action to Protect Your Health and the Planet

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and improve your health simultaneously:

• Walk or bike instead of driving to avoid burning fossil fuels and get exercise

• Eat less red meat, which is linked to a lower risk of heart disease and certain cancers

• Grow and consume local produce to foster a sense of community and eat more vegetables

• Use renewable energy to reduce air pollution and lower the risk of asthma and lung cancer

Remember, environmental health is human health. By taking action to combat climate change, you are not only protecting the planet but also safeguarding your own well-being. To learn more about the connection between climate change and health, visit the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.