Key Facts:
- Climate change exacerbates humanitarian emergencies and poses significant risks to human health.
- Vulnerable populations are disproportionately affected by climate-related health hazards.
- Urgent action is needed to limit global temperature rise and prevent catastrophic health consequences.
- WHO plays a crucial role in addressing climate-related health risks and promoting equitable responses.
Overview:
Overview:
- Discusses the multifaceted threats posed by climate change to human health, emphasising its role as a threat multiplier.
- Highlights the adverse effects on physical, mental, and social determinants of health, as well as its implications for universal health coverage (UHC).
Climate Change Impacts on Health:
Climate Change Impacts on Health:
- Examines various ways in which climate change affects health, including through extreme weather events, disruptions to food systems, and increased disease transmission.
- Emphasises disparities in vulnerability and resilience among different populations and regions, with marginalised communities bearing the brunt of health impacts.
Climate Change and Equity:
Climate Change and Equity:
- Stresses the importance of addressing health disparities and promoting equity in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts.
- Calls for prioritising vulnerable groups and ensuring adequate support and resources for those most affected by climate change.
Need for Urgent Action:
Need for Urgent Action:
- Advocates for immediate efforts to limit global temperature rise and prevent catastrophic health consequences.
- Urges policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities to take proactive measures to reduce emissions, enhance resilience, and protect vulnerable populations.
WHO Response:
WHO Response:
- Outlines WHO’s strategies for addressing climate-related health risks, including promoting climate-friendly policies and building resilient health systems.
- Highlights WHO’s leadership role in raising awareness, providing evidence-based guidance, and building capacity to address climate-related health risks at the national and global levels.