Climate Change Impacts on Human Health

Abstract

Our environment provides us with natural resources that are important for our survival and livelihoods. The Earth’s species are dependent on the ecosystem service functions of our planet which is driven by climate stability. Health is a very important aspect and is most essential for life. Health is directly related to the nature of the environment, weather and climate. Changes in weather and climate have influenced the health of human populations in the past and caused several epidemics. Weather and climate can affect the distribution and survival of several arthropods, such as mosquitoes or mammals that are vectors for various diseases. Recently many people in Kerala and some parts of South India were affected by the West Nile virus which is attributed to the changing weather and vector borne influences. This fever is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease and is caused by the flavivirus — West Nile Virus. The state of Kerala was on high alert as a seven year old boy from Mallapuram died in Kozikode due to the virus. In the same way, the water quality can be impacted giving rise to health problems. We are observing changes in the frequency and severity of weather and climate phenomena. This is seen as heavy rains, droughts, and also extreme cold or hot temperatures in different geographical regions. All this can lead to new climate-related health threats. Therefore, climate variability can pose threats to human health in several ways. The impacts of climate change are already being witnessed and will further increase in the coming decades. It may also lead to several emerging infectious diseases. Scientists study the exposure pathways in humans and animals for understanding the impacts of climate change on health. This involves conducting studies over time and in different locations, among different communities. In this research paper will discuss about the various impacts of climate change on human health.