Climate Change and Impact on Health
Climate change has been linked to a significant rise in health conditions such as respiratory illnesses, heart-related diseases, vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue, and mental health challenges. Vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those in low-income areas with limited access to healthcare, are most affected. Rising temperatures, air pollution, and changing disease patterns are key drivers.
Climate-Related Health Issues in Children
The frequency and intensity of heatwaves correlate directly with spikes in heat-related illnesses and even deaths. Poor air quality worsens respiratory conditions like asthma. In my 14 years of practice, I have never seen so many children suffering from asthma. In the past, we hardly prescribed inhalers, but now, I diagnose 10-15 cases of asthma every month. This could be due to the climate changes and allergies, making children more prone to allergic conditions.
Awareness of Climate-Related Impacts on Children’s Health
Awareness is gradually increasing, but it varies by region. In highly affected areas, parents and healthcare providers are more alert to the health risks posed by climate change. However, widespread, consistent education on this issue is still needed. Some doctors may recognise the symptoms of climate-related illnesses but may not connect them to climate change itself, especially with indirect effects like air quality or the spread of vector-borne diseases. Pediatricians and primary healthcare providers are becoming more knowledgeable, but there is still room for improvement in understanding and awareness.
Distinguishing Climate-Related Diseases from Conventional Diseases
For pediatricians, it is quite easy to notice patterns. We track cases like diarrhoea, malaria, dengue, and sudden respiratory distress in specific seasons. For instance, when dengue cases rise, we educate parents on preventing mosquito breeding. Similarly, when respiratory issues increase due to pollution or pollen, we are aware that allergies are becoming more prevalent. In cities like Mumbai, malaria cases are common, and in Ahmedabad, there were recent outbreaks of dengue. By staying aware of local patterns, we can guide parents and take preventive measures.
The treatment doesn’t differ. Whether the disease is climate-related or conventional, the treatment remains the same. For example, if a child contracts dengue or malaria, we follow the standard treatments for those diseases. The treatment is disease-specific, not climate-specific.
Pregnancy and Climate Change
As a pediatrician, I typically see patients after birth, but sometimes expectant mothers ask about concerns related to climate change. I always aim to provide reassurance and positive hope, rather than creating anxiety. It is important to inform them about the risks and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their child, but we should not cause unnecessary fear. We need to focus on how we, as individuals, can contribute to minimizing the impacts of climate change.
Climate Education in Schools
Integrating climate education into the school curriculum can empower children with knowledge and encourage responsible behaviour from a young age. It can cover the science of climate change, its health impacts, and practical actions families can take. Beyond science classes, this education can also be integrated into subjects like social studies and health. Educating the youth will help create a generation that is better prepared to handle these challenges and raise awareness within their communities.
Vulnerable Populations and Climate-Related Health Risks
There are two key points to address. First, many people in lower socioeconomic groups are less educated and lack access to awareness about hygiene, disease prevention, and climate risks. They may not know how diseases like cholera or malaria spread, or the importance of sanitation.
Secondly, basic awareness about issues like heat stroke is critical. For example, in areas with rising temperatures, it’s essential to stay hydrated and avoid going out during peak heat hours. Providing education and raising awareness, especially among healthcare workers and community leaders, is crucial to prevent illness and death.
Changes in Children’s Disease Profile Over the Last 15 Years
There have been significant changes. In the last 4-5 years, allergies and new viruses have become more prevalent. With advancements in science, diagnoses are more accurate, but the number of allergy cases and developmental delays has increased. Children are learning to walk and speak later than before. This may be linked to climate change, as well as exposure to chemicals in food, which can impact brain development. We need to address these changes and take responsibility for our environment.
Dr Google & Medical Advice
I advise against it. Anyone can publish information on Google, whether it is accurate or not. It is difficult to know what is authentic. Many times, Google provides answers that are not reliable or could even be harmful. We are becoming overly dependent on Google for everything, but we need to be critical about the information we trust, especially when it comes to health.
Managing Climate Anxiety
Anxiety is not the solution. We must focus on protecting the environment and preserving the things that benefit us, like trees, clean air, and water. If someone is anxious about climate change, it is important to channel that energy into positive action, like reducing personal carbon footprints and raising awareness in their community. We must all contribute to making changes, not just blame politicians or health workers. Climate change is a collective responsibility.
To relieve climate anxiety, we need to make personal changes and work toward protecting the environment. If you are concerned about climate change, consider changing your lifestyle—reduce carbon emissions, use sustainable transport, and engage in community-driven efforts. Educating and empowering ourselves will be the first step in managing climate anxiety and making a positive impact. Only then can we see some relief.
