Climate change a 'continuing threat' to global public health: medical journal

In this Saturday, Jan. 10, 2009, file photo, a flock of geese fly past a smokestack at the Jeffery Energy Center coal power plant near Emmitt, Kan. (AP / Charlie Riedel, File)

Rising global temperatures could bring an increase in respiratory illnesses, infectious diseases and even depression, according to a new medical journal editorial.

In an editorial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association on Monday, doctors say climate change poses a “continuing threat” to public health, akin to the dangers of war and poverty.

“Climate change is happening,” the editorial says. “The relationship of heat-waves, floods, and droughts along with adverse outcomes is evident.”

The authors push for a concerted effort to cut back on greenhouse gas emissions, while encouraging health officials to adapt to rising global temperatures.

“Consensus is substantial that human behaviour contributes to climate change,” the article’s authors say.

The editorial lists a number of public health issues that could become more common as temperatures rise worldwide. Those risks include:

The editorial is based on numerous health-focused climate change studies, along with weather projections for the next 50 years. Those projections say worldwide temperatures could rise by as much as 2 degrees Celsius by 2050, resulting in more severe heat days around the globe.

The authors say climate change could have wide-ranging and unforeseen consequences beyond those listed in their article. They stress that public awareness is key in cutting back greenhouse gas emissions and fighting climate change.

“Effective communication may shift knowledge, attitudes and behaviour toward reducing the risks of climate change,” the article says.