A narrative review of the health impact of climate change and food security on Pacific Island countries and territories

Abstract

Introduction Pacific island countries and territories (PICTs) are experiencing the effects of climate change. A changing climate threatens regional food security. This has implications for the way food is sourced and consumed, and in turn the health challenges PICTs face. This paper presents a narrative analysis of accessible literature from PICTs on the health impacts of climate change and food security. Methods The MEDLINE and Scopus databases were used to identify relevant literature, with no date restriction. Records were organised using a PRISMA framework. Ten articles, published between 2010 and 2019, were included in the final synthesis. Included articles were those that explored the convergent themes on the described association between climate change, food security and health. Results Four articles examined the wider Pacific region, four referred to Micronesia region and/or its constituent countries, and two focused at the country level. Various social, cultural and economic factors may explain why food security has been worsening over time, coinciding with shifts in dietary patterns, and in turn health challenges. Discussion Climate change is impacting food security through its effects on fisheries, agriculture, and migration. These shifts are documented in various studies based within PICTs, yet there are relatively few studies drawing together climate change and food security with a view to informing public health interventions. Conclusion Food security remains a major public health issue for PICTs, and further research is needed to support the development of evidence-based public health policy responses to the climate change impacts on health in the region.