Health Challenges and Climate Change

Catalog description

Climate change affects the very basic foundations of health - adequate and nutritious food, safe water, fresh air, and secure shelter. This course introduces the direct and indirect links between climate change and human health. Examples of health impacts related to climate change will include those arising from drought induced water and food insecurity, vector-borne and water-borne diseases, temperature extremes, wildfires, and extreme hydrological events. Underlying socio-ecological determinants that influence exposure and vulnerability will be described. The course will also explore opportunities for mitigation and adaptation to reduce the threats of climate change. Case studies of how countries are responding to the health challenges posed by climate change will be presented.