A new medical journal editorial has concluded that if the global temperature continues to rise, people will face numerous health issues. Rise in temperatures could bring an increase in several infectious diseases, illnesses and depression.
The rise in global temperatures could raise infectious diseases that are spread by mosquitoes like those that are carrying the West Nile virus.
It was also stated in the study that natural disasters such as hurricanes and floods could cause depression in huge numbers of people. Thus, these environmental occurrences do not only strike people financially, but physically, emotionally and mentally as well.
Dr. Jonathan Patz, lead author of the study stated that, "climate change already is affecting global health, but the good news is that clear health benefits are immediately available, from low-carbon strategies that today could result in cleaner air or to more active transportation options that can improve physical fitness, ultimately saving lives and averting disease."
The study examines the science behind some of the current and projected climate-related health problem. These events include more extreme heat waves, more storms and typhoons, increased waterborne and infectious disease risks, more chronic health risks related to air pollution, and increased malnutrition and obesity-related risks from carbon-intensive diets.
According to Dr. Patz, the climate change that we are experiencing right now is a tremendous public health dispute because it affects our health in many ways. But if the risks are so interdependent, so, too, are the opportunities.
Evidence shows that there is an important health benefit in active transport specially in the expanse of chronic disease. And with current disease trends in industrializing nations, burning less fossil fuel can take potentially great dividends for public health
According to Carlos Dora, WHO health policy expert, these findings interlock with recent World Health Organization (WHO) studies that identified major health benefits from low carbon housing, transport and agriculture. Many of these benefits come from reductions in air pollution, but low carbon strategies can also increase physical activity, reduce traffic injuries and improve food security.
The findings on climate change and declining public health will be presented in at the Civil Society Event on Action on Climate Change and Health in New York.