Global Warming

Global Warming: Health Issues to be Considered

One of the true saying “The only thing more dangerous than ignorance is arrogance”, Is it the reason for the resolution of debate? Nearly all scientists (and politicians) agree that climate change is real, is here, and is the result of human activity. Experts also agree that the consequences of global warming are serious and [...]

One of the true saying “The only thing more dangerous than ignorance is arrogance”, Is it the reason for the resolution of debate? Nearly all scientists (and politicians) agree that climate change is real, is here, and is the result of human activity. Experts also agree that the consequences of global warming are serious and far-reaching. All too often, though, these consequences are framed in terms of the threat to polar bears, exotic wildlife, and beautiful glaciers. But climate change threatens more than the earth’s vistas. It also threatens human health.

Climate change can affect human health in many ways. The direct effect of exposure to hot weather is the most obvious example. Heat-related illnesses and deaths will increase as the earth warms up. And climate change involves more than warming; typhoons, floods, and wildfires are expected to increase, causing injury, death, psychological trauma, and damage to the public health infrastructure.

The sea level will rise, displacing millions of people. Human suffering and economic stress are obvious consequences. In addition, disruptions in sanitation, the supply of fresh water, and food production may cause health problems that extend far beyond receding shorelines. Food- and water-borne infections and malnutrition are evident threats, but the combination of population shifts and socioeconomic hardships could also trigger political instability and international conflict.

The worst-case scenario may make the health consequences of global warming sound like science fiction or Al Gore’s bad dream. Air pollution is another threat whose time has already come. Particulate emissions and noxious gases spewed from tailpipes, smokestacks , and burning forests contribute to heart and lung diseases. Experts blame poor air quality for the fourfold increase in asthma since 1980.

According to recent studies, the World Health Organization estimates that climate change is already responsible for 150,000 deaths a year worldwide, and the toll is expected to double by 2030.

Climate change is a huge problem, so big that it may seem insolvable. But instead of throwing up your hands and continuing to turn fossil fuels into CO2, we can take steps to control the problems. Success will depend on a combination of scientific research, new public policies, and informed personal choices.