The repercussions of climate change on global health have reached alarming levels, as brought into light in the latest report by The Lancet. The findings indicate an important increase in health threats linked to rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations have telld the urgency of addressing these issues, emphasising that climate inaction is detrimental to public health.
About the Health Crisis
The report outlines that climate change is not merely an environmental issue; it is fundamentally a health crisis. The rise in global temperatures has led to a marked increase in the frequency of climate-related disasters, which directly impacts human health. For example, the average exposure to health-threatening temperatures has surged, with individuals facing an unprecedented increase of 50 days per year compared to scenarios without climate change.
Food Insecurity and Economic Impact
The interplay between climate change and food security is critical. The report reveals that extreme drought conditions have affected nearly half of the global land area, contributing to a staggering 151 million people experiencing moderate to severe food insecurity annually. Furthermore, the economic ramifications are severe, with potential labour hour losses amounting to 181 billion in 2023, translating to an important income loss of approximately USD 141 billion.
India’s Vulnerability
India stands out as one of the most affected nations, with record-breaking heatwaves posing serious risks to its population. The report indicates that individuals, particularly infants and the elderly, are at heightened risk, with exposure levels exceeding those from previous decades. The economic toll on India’s workforce due to heat stress is alarming, necessitating urgent action to mitigate these impacts.
Coastal Regions and Migration
India’s extensive coastline is under severe threat from rising sea levels, with approximately 18.1 million people living in areas less than one metre above sea level. This situation has led to increased migration, particularly in vulnerable regions like the Sundarbans. The interplay between climate factors and migration dynamics is crucial for understanding the broader implications of climate change on society.
Changing Disease Patterns
The decade ending in 2023 has seen a notable shift in the transmission dynamics of climate-sensitive infectious diseases in India. Diseases like malaria and dengue have spread to new regions, including higher altitudes and coastal areas, respectively. This change poses additional challenges to public health systems, necessitating a reevaluation of disease management strategies in light of evolving climatic conditions.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the impact of climate change on global health, citing specific examples from recent reports.
- Examine the relationship between climate change, food security, and economic stability.
- Analyse India’s vulnerability to climate change and its implications for public health.
- Evaluate the effects of rising sea levels on coastal populations in India.
- Investigate the changing patterns of infectious diseases in India due to climate change.
