Climate change affects the social and environmental determinants of health – clean air, safe drinking water, sufficient food and secure shelter. Between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250 000 additional deaths per year, from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhoea and heat stress. The direct damage costs to health (i.e. excluding costs in health-determining sectors such as agriculture and water and sanitation), is estimated to be between USD 2-4 billion/year by 2030.
Climate change impacts human health in both direct and indirect ways. Extreme heat waves, rising sea level, changes in precipitation resulting in flooding and droughts, and intense hurricanes can directly cause injury, illness, and even death. The effects of climate change can also indirectly affect health through alterations to the environment. For example, worsening air pollution levels can have negative impacts on respiratory and cardiovascular conditions.
Air pollution is contamination of the indoor or outdoor environment by any chemical, physical or biological agent that modifies the natural characteristics of the atmosphere. Household combustion devices, motor vehicles, industrial facilities and forest fires are common sources of air pollution. Pollutants of major public health concern include particulate matter, carbon monoxide, ozone, nitrogen dioxide and sulfur dioxide. Outdoor and indoor air pollution cause respiratory and other diseases and are important sources of morbidity and mortality.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), each year air pollution is responsible for nearly seven million deaths around the globe. Nine out of ten human beings currently breathe air that exceeds the WHO’s guideline limits for pollutants, with those living in low- and middle-income countries suffering the most.
Air pollution can have serious effects on human health. It can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema, as well as heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Children, the elderly, and people with pre-existing health conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of air pollution. Long-term exposure to air pollution can also weaken the immune system and increase the risk of developing chronic diseases.
There are several ways to reduce your exposure to outdoor air pollution:
- Stay informed about local air quality by checking the Air Quality Index (AQI) for your area.
- Avoid outdoor activities when air pollution levels are high, especially if you have a pre-existing health condition.
- If you must be outside when air pollution levels are high, try to limit your physical activity and avoid heavy exertion.
- Choose walking, cycling, or public transportation instead of driving to reduce emissions from vehicles.
- Avoid burning wood or trash, as these activities release pollutants into the air.
By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and others from the harmful effects of air pollution.
There are several ways to reduce your exposure to indoor air pollution:
- Keep your home well-ventilated by opening windows and using exhaust fans, especially when cooking, cleaning, or using products that release pollutants into the air.
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters to remove pollutants from the air.
- Avoid smoking indoors, as tobacco smoke is a major source of indoor air pollution.
- Choose low-emission products, such as paints and cleaning products, that release fewer pollutants into the air.
- Keep your home clean and dust-free to reduce the levels of allergens and other pollutants.
By taking these steps, you can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce your exposure to indoor air pollution.