World Health Alert: Global Warming Deteriorating Human Health (REPORT LINK)
The 2016 federal report on the impact of man-made global warming on human health in the United States has issued a stark warning about the potential health risks associated with climate change. Authored by Matthew McIntosh, the 332-page report highlights the significant threats to public health due to rising heat-related illnesses and deaths, worsening air quality, increased prevalence of vector-borne diseases, and other climate-sensitive health issues.
Key findings of the report include:
- Heat-related illnesses and deaths: The report predicts a rise in heat-related mortality due to more frequent and intense heat waves caused by climate change. Urban areas are particularly at risk, with extreme heat exposure increasing the risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths[2][4].
- Air quality deterioration: Warmer temperatures are projected to increase ground-level ozone and wildfire smoke, aggravating respiratory and cardiovascular conditions such as asthma[4].
- Vector-borne diseases: The report anticipates an expansion of vector-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus, increasing rates of infection[4].
- Vulnerable populations: Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, low-income communities, and those with preexisting health conditions, are predicted to face disproportionately higher risks[4].
- Other climate-sensitive health issues: The report also includes impacts on mental health due to extreme weather events and disruptions to food security and clean water access[4].
The report serves as a scientific foundation for the 2009 Endangerment Finding, which declares greenhouse gases a threat to public health and welfare. This finding underpins EPA regulations to reduce climate pollution and protect health[1][4].
While recent political efforts have sought to undermine this scientific consensus, the 2016 assessment remains a comprehensive scientific evaluation affirming that man-made climate change is causing lasting, widespread harm to human health across the United States[3][4].
The report can be read in full at its provided link, and more information about the author, Matthew McIntosh, can be found on his website.
- Implementing workplace wellness programs that emphasize fitness and exercise can help reduce the risks associated with climate change on mental health, as physical activity is known to improve mood and alleviate stress.
- In addition to heat-related illnesses and deaths, the report also highlights the potential impact of climate change on health-and-wellness, with a predicted increase in the prevalence of vector-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and West Nile virus.
- Acknowledging the harm caused by climate change, the 2016 federal report on human health and climate change serves as a significant reference for climate-change environmental science and the importance of promoting health and wellness in the workplace.
- The 2016 assessment on the impact of man-made global warming on human health in the United States points out that our sleep patterns could be affected by climate change, with increased temperatures and air quality issues leading to disturbed sleep and possible negative health effects.
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