The Role of Climate Change on Human Health
by Jenna Mendez
3.4 min read
Climate change has a significant impact on the Earth. Yet many people are unaware of the risks it poses to their health. Although it may seem like a daunting topic, there are solutions to help you cut the health risks posed by climate change. Learn more about how the results of climate change can affect your health.
Air Pollution
Climate change is impacting the earth and human health in many ways. One of the most concerning effects is worsening air quality. As temperatures rise, pollution levels increase and air pollutants become more concentrated. This can cause a range of respiratory issues such as asthma, COPD, and other lung diseases. Climate change can also lead to an increased risk for cardiovascular problems. These issues can include hypertension or stroke due to long-term exposure. With climate change making our air quality worse, it’s important that we take steps to protect our health.
Warming Weather
Climate change is having an alarmingly large effect on the spread of infectious diseases. Particularly when it comes to vector-borne diseases such as malaria and Lyme disease. Warmer climates mean that mosquitoes and ticks are able to survive for longer periods of time. Which can increase the risk of these diseases for humans. Additionally, water-borne diseases like cholera are also being linked to climate change. This is due to the increasing number of floods and droughts that can contaminate water sources.
Increased Flooding
Climate change is having a devastating impact on our environment and our health. One of the most concerning effects is the increase in flooding. As temperatures continue to rise, heavy rain is happening more often worldwide. This can lead to flash floods, storm surges, and even landslides. These events can cause serious damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. These disasters put human lives at risk due potential for drowning and electrocution.
Rising Sea Levels
Rising sea levels caused by climate change are leading to increased flooding and storm surges. This can pose a major risk to human health. These events often result in the contamination of drinking water and the destruction of homes and businesses. Besides the risks of flooding, rising sea levels can contaminate freshwater sources with salt water. This can have long-term effects on human health.
Who is the Most at Risk?
Climate change is impacting human health in many ways and some populations are more vulnerable than others. The people most at risk for negative health effects include the elderly, pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases. For example, extreme temperatures can cause heat exhaustion or even death in those without access to air conditioning. While those with weakened immune systems can be more prone to the spread of vector-borne diseases that can be caused by climate change.
How can you Protect Yourself?
To reduce the risks posed by climate change, individuals should consider making adjustments to their daily routines. These can include utilizing public transportation or carpooling to reduce air pollution levels. Additionally, switching to renewable energy sources can reduce the impact of climate change on human health. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power produce fewer greenhouse gases and have a lower environmental impact than fossil fuels. Switching to renewable energy can reduce air pollution levels and help mitigate the spread of vector-borne diseases. In the same way, people should make sure they are properly immunized against diseases. As well as limit their exposure to extreme temperatures when possible.
With these simple tips in mind, you can help keep yourself safe while reducing your own contribution to climate change!
Santanna Energy Services is a supplier of renewable energy solutions in the United States, providing services to Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Ohio. We provide a wide range of energy services and products to meet the needs of both residential and small business customers. Our mission is to provide innovative and cost-effective energy solutions that will help our customers achieve their energy goals. With over 35 years of experience, we are committed to creating life-long relationships by providing quality service to customers, communities, and employees.
Jenna loves to use her voice to spread awareness about reforestation, eco-friendly initiatives, and protecting planet Earth. She's passionate about making the world a better place and is driven by her desire to give back to the planet. She is committed to learning more about the environment and its preservation and is a strong believer in the power of education and activism.
