Climate change is causing more severe storms, more dangerous floods and worse droughts. And it’s not just an environmental issue.
Climate change is also a major public health concern that impacts the air you breathe, the food you eat and even your mental health. It’s behind heat-related illnesses and respiratory conditions and it can impact your overall well-being.
“Climate change can affect your health in many ways, including extreme heat, air pollution, mosquitoes and ticks, mental health impacts, food availability, water safety and extreme weather events,” said Naomi Newman, MD, an internal medicine specialist with Banner - University Medicine.
Here’s more about the health effects of climate change, and the steps you can take to stay healthier.
How does extreme heat cause heat-related illnesses?
As global temperatures rise, heatwaves are becoming more common and more dangerous. High heat can raise the risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, especially in children, older adults and people who work or exercise outdoors.
To stay safe during extreme heat, it is important to:
- Drink plenty of water even if you are not thirsty.
- Wear light loose-fitting clothing to help your body stay cool.
- Avoid outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
- Take breaks in the shade or indoors and use air conditioning or fans when you can.
- Seek care for any signs of heat-related illness, like heavy sweating, a weak pulse, clammy skin, nausea and weakness.
How does air pollution affect breathing?
Climate change makes air quality worse. It increases the number of wildfires and makes them more intense, worsens smog and leads to more airborne particles that can irritate your lungs. People with asthma, COPD, or other lung conditions may notice more flare-ups.
It can help to:
- Check daily air quality reports online or through apps.
- Stay indoors on days with poor air quality.
- Use air purifiers to improve the air quality in your home.
- Wear a mask if you need to be outside when pollution is high.
- Stay connected with a primary care provider or pulmonologist if you have a chronic lung condition.
How does climate change impact diseases from mosquitoes and ticks?
With warmer weather and changing seasons, mosquitoes and ticks are expanding into more places and staying active for longer periods. This increases your risk of illnesses like Lyme disease, West Nile virus and dengue fever.
If you think you may have been exposed to one of these diseases, see your health care provider. They can help spot early signs and offer guidance if you have symptoms after a bug bite.
To lower your risk:
- Use insect repellent with DEET or other recommended ingredients.
- Wear long sleeves and pants when you are in wooded or grassy areas.
- Check for ticks after being outdoors.
- Stay informed about outbreaks in your area.
How does climate change impact mental health?
The health effects of climate change aren’t just physical. “Many people are stressed or worried about environmental changes, which may be called eco-anxiety or climate grief,” Dr. Newman said. And people who have lived through climate-related disasters like wildfires, floods or hurricanes may face increased rates of PTSD, anxiety or depression.
If you are struggling, these strategies can help:
- Connect with others through support groups or community events.
- Limit your exposure to upsetting news.
- Seek help from a mental health professional for support and coping strategies.
- Focus on small actions you can control, like reducing waste or conserving energy.
How does climate change affect food and water safety?
Extreme weather, droughts and floods can destroy farms, making healthy food harder to find or more expensive. Plus, warmer temperatures raise the risk of foodborne and waterborne illnesses.
To help stay safe, you should:
- Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
- Store food at the right temperature, which helps keep bacteria from growing and helps food last longer.
- Pay attention to local water quality alerts, especially if you live in an area where flooding or water contamination is common. Keep bottled water or purification supplies on hand.
Talk to your health care provider if you need help understanding symptoms of food- or waterborne illness and want to know when to seek medical attention.
Who is at highest risk from climate change?
While climate change can affect anyone, some groups face higher health risks:
- Children and older adults, who may have weaker immune systems or trouble controlling their body temperature.
- People with chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease or diabetes.
- Outdoor workers like construction or farm workers, who are exposed to extreme conditions.
- People in low-income or marginalized communities may have fewer resources or limited access to health care. “Climate change brings light to socioeconomic disparities,” Dr. Newman said.
What can you do to protect your health?
Take these steps to protect your health in a changing climate:
- Drink plenty of water to help prevent dehydration, especially in hot weather.
- Limit outdoor time on days with poor air quality to protect your lungs.
- Eat nutritious foods to support a strong immune system.
- Keep up with vaccines and screenings to stay ahead of new health risks.
- Prepare for emergencies. Know your evacuation plans and keep a supply kit ready.
How can community and policy actions make a difference?
It’s important to support efforts to address climate change. You can:
- Support clean energy efforts and green space projects in your area.
- Vote for leaders and policies that prioritize public health and the environment. “You can advocate for environmental protection at a state or local level. Write or call your representatives,” Dr. Newman said.
- Reduce your personal impact by recycling, using less water and carpooling or using public transportation when possible.
The bottom line
Climate change isn’t just about the planet – it’s about our health. From the air we breathe to the food we eat, our well-being is closely tied to our environment.
You can take steps today to protect yourself, your family and your community. Making small, thoughtful changes and staying informed can go a long way.
If you have health concerns related to climate change, connect with an expert at Banner Health for guidance.
