Health professionals are particularly attentive to the links between environment, climate and respiratory health and should be given greater consideration by environmental policy makers. The European Respiratory Society (ERS) has set out the main health implications of climate change in 9 points.
SMALL TIPS:
- Climate change is real
We are all well aware of the record temperatures recorded in 2016 and the news of melting Arctic glaciers… all of which put coastal populations at risk (flooding) and can lead to freshwater shortages.
- Health and the environment linked to climate change
An estimated 12.6 million global deaths per year are attributable to modifiable environmental factors. Increased concentrations of greenhouse gases (such as carbon dioxide) have led to prolonged heat waves, longer pollen seasons, pollution, fires and massive rainfall with flooding.
- Climate change has a direct effect on respiratory health
Rising temperatures lead to increased mortality from respiratory causes. Sultry heat and humidity are exacerbating factors for asthma and COPD. An increase in thunderstorm asthma epidemics is expected. In addition to abnormal temperature, there is increased exposure to other risk factors: high humidity with indoor mould proliferation (and thus worsening asthma, rhinitis or susceptibility to lung infections), increased pollutants such as ozone (which affect lung function).
- Medical fallout from factors never considered before is emerging
These are extreme natural phenomena, such as the lengthening and intensification of pollen seasons, or the large quantities of particulate matter resulting from fires, desertification or sandstorms.
- The impact on health is not always equal
Approximately 30% of the population is at risk of ‘lethal heat events’ and people already suffering from respiratory diseases are even more susceptible.
- The challenge is to change
Gas emissions depend on population size, economic activities, lifestyles, energy use and land use. Combating climate change requires mitigation and adaptation.
- Act to limit
Policies are needed to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution. Some examples: reducing the use of fossil fuels, increasing public or non-motorised transport.
- Act to adapt
Adaptation requires addressing the impact of climate change, for example by implementing health surveillance of climate-related diseases. Of course, one should not resign oneself to the presence of pollutants if less harmful alternatives exist.
- Above all, act now!
Much has been done since the US pulled out of the Paris Agreement. Active proposals are needed, such as Sweden’s to be carbon neutral by 2045, invest in green fuels, reduce emissions and meet WHO air quality standards. linkare esternamente.
Medical societies must continue to support these messages in defence of the health of the population and demand policies that will lead to the achievement of these goals.SMALL