Why Climate Change Is Our Greatest Global Health Risk

Climate change has become the most pressing global health threat of our time. A report by the World Economic Forum (WEF) in collaboration with Oliver Wyman, highlights the serious consequences of climate change on human health.

According to the report, if urgent mitigation and adaptation strategies are not implemented, the effects of climate change will lead to millions of additional deaths, economic losses worth trillions of dollars, and overwhelming pressure on global healthcare systems.

One of the major health threats caused by climate change is the rise of pathogens. Pathogens, which include bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, are responsible for numerous infectious diseases. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity create ideal conditions for the spread of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and cholera.

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Mosquito-borne diseases, in particular, have expanded into regions where they were previously uncommon, exposing new populations to deadly infections. According to the report, as temperatures rise, mosquitoes that carry malaria and dengue are now found at higher altitudes and in regions that were once too cold for their survival. The result is a surge in vector-borne diseases, putting millions of lives at risk.

Another significant impact of climate change on health is the increase in pollution levels. Pollution, particularly air pollution, is a leading cause of respiratory illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer. The burning of fossil fuels releases particulate matter (PM2.5), nitrogen oxides, and sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere, which causes inflammation in the lungs and cardiovascular diseases.

Rising temperatures also contribute to higher levels of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog that exacerbates respiratory illnesses. According to the report, air pollution is responsible for nearly 7 million premature deaths annually, with children, the elderly, and individuals with preexisting conditions being the most vulnerable.

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Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves, hurricanes, droughts, and floods, are another growing concern. These events are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change, leading to heat-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths. Heatwaves, for example, can cause heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular stress, particularly among outdoor workers, elderly populations, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

The report warns that if global temperatures continue to rise, heat-related deaths could increase significantly by 2050. Additionally, floods caused by rising sea levels and extreme rainfall lead to waterborne diseases, as contaminated floodwaters spread bacteria and viruses, worsening public health crises.

Climate change is also widening health inequalities, particularly in low-income communities and developing nations. People in poorer regions often lack access to quality healthcare, clean water, and proper sanitation, making them more susceptible to disease outbreaks.

The report highlights that climate-related disasters disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, as they are the least equipped to adapt to changing conditions. Malnutrition is another major issue, as droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns reduce crop yields, leading to food shortages and increased rates of hunger and malnutrition.

The economic burden of climate-related health issues is staggering. According to the report, climate change could result in an additional 14.5 million deaths, $12.5 trillion in economic losses, and $1.1 trillion in extra costs to healthcare systems by 2050.

The rising demand for medical care due to climate-induced diseases puts enormous strain on already fragile healthcare infrastructures, particularly in developing countries. Hospitals are experiencing shortages in medical supplies, overcrowding, and reduced capacity to respond to emergencies, further worsening the crisis.

Addressing these challenges requires immediate and coordinated action. Governments must invest in renewable energy sources, phase out fossil fuels, and implement stricter environmental regulations to reduce pollution levels.

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Public health systems need to adapt to emerging disease patterns by strengthening surveillance systems, improving healthcare access, and investing in climate-resilient medical facilities. Individuals also have a role to play by adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and supporting climate-friendly policies.