Two silent epidemics: air pollution and climate change. “Slow and sustainable medicine” as part of the solution

Abstract

Human health is one of the earliest biosensors of climate change, which increases the frequency and severity of many diseases, as reported by Bellone.1 In Europe, air pollution is becoming a severe health problem that needs to be addressed by physicians of all specialties as well as governments and the general public. Unfortunately, it is acknowledged that the Po Valley in Italy is among the most polluted areas in Europe. As physicians practicing in this area, we feel we must remind our colleagues of the increasing impact of the environment on the health of ourselves and our patients. Along with having a substantial negative influence on both human and environmental health, air pollution also has a financial cost since it raises medical expenses and reduces productivity due to missed workdays. We can define this situation as a silent epidemic that affects all people, regardless of age. [...]