Why med students should be heated up about climate change

Authors

  • Michael A Benusic Vancouver Fraser Medical Program, Class of 2014, University of British Columbia

Abstract

Future climate change is predicted to have a devastating effect on human health, with attributable morbidity and mortality already occurring. Climate-sensitive diseases such as malnutrition, diarrhea, vector-borne illnesses, and cardiovascular and respiratory disease are projected to increase, mainly in populations with an already high disease burden. Ironically, those who are most vulnerable are those who contribute the least to global greenhouse gas emissions. As health care professionals we can serve a role in national and international climate change policy, reduce emissions by advocating lifestyle choices that co-benefit health, and adapt health systems at home and abroad to increase resilience against future changes.

Additional Files

Published

2013-02-19

Issue

Section

Global Health