What are the most common diseases linked to climate change?

Climate change affects human health in multiple ways, exacerbating existing diseases and introducing new health threats. Some of the most notable diseases and health conditions impacted by climate change include:

Diseases Associated with Extreme Heat

Increasingly high temperatures lead to a rise in heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Heat cramps typically occur in the muscles, especially in the legs or abdomen, as a result of salt loss due to sweating. Heat exhaustion symptoms include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, nausea, and vomiting. Heatstroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that occurs when the body temperature exceeds 40°C (104°F) and the body fails to cool itself. It is crucial to drink plenty of fluids, especially those containing electrolytes, and seek a cool environment when feeling any of these symptoms. In the event of heatstroke, emergency medical assistance must be sought immediately [3].

Respiratory Diseases and Allergies

Climate change contributes to increased air pollution, pollen, and mold, which leads to the exacerbation of respiratory diseases such as asthma and other breathing problems. It can also lead to an increase in allergy cases. Wildfires, which are increasing in intensity and frequency due to climate change, release carbon dioxide and cause air pollution with smoke, which negatively affects the respiratory system [1].

Vector-Borne Diseases

With rising temperatures, disease-carrying insects such as mosquitoes and ticks are spreading to areas that were previously too cold for them. This geographical expansion increases the spread of infectious diseases carried by these vectors, such as dengue fever, malaria, and Lyme disease [1]. Climate change can also lead to changes in the prevalence and distribution of food-borne and water-borne diseases [2].

Impacts on Mental Health

The effects of climate change are not limited to physical health but also extend to mental health. Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods, in addition to ongoing environmental changes, can cause high levels of stress and anxiety, and may lead to mental health problems [1].

How Can You Protect Yourself?

• Keep your body cool: Drink plenty of hydrating fluids such as water and sports drinks that replace salts and minerals. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks.
• Plan your outdoor activities: Exercise or engage in outdoor activities during times when temperatures are lower, such as early morning or evening.
• Seek air-conditioned places: Spend time in air-conditioned environments, whether at home, with friends and family, or in public places such as malls and libraries.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colors that allow for airflow.
• Be aware of symptoms: Recognize the signs of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. In the event of severe symptoms such as body temperature exceeding 40°C, confusion, or loss of consciousness, seek emergency medical assistance immediately.
• Monitor air quality: On days when air quality is poor, reduce outdoor activities, especially if you suffer from respiratory diseases.

For more information on the health effects of climate change and how to protect yourself, you can visit Climate Change and Human Health: Health Effects and How We Protect Ourselves? (Arabic).

Medical references

• Climate Change
• Effects of Climate Change on Health
• Hotter days put human health at risk