Climate Adaptation and Public Health
EPA works to protect and improve human health and the environment. Climate change poses significant risks to public health. These risks make it more challenging for communities to provide public health services.
Changes in climate, such as higher average temperatures and increased storm frequency and intensity, can intensify public health stressors including decreased air and water quality, accidental exposure to chemicals, and extreme heat (see chart below).
Climate change will affect some people’s health more than others, depending on where they live and their ability to cope with different climate impacts. The most vulnerable often include the very young, the elderly, the poor, the infirm, and tribes.
Health Risks Related to EPA's Mission
This chart illustrates key risks posed by climate change to public health, recognizing other factors can also affect the health outcomes.
| Changes in Climate and Sea Level |
Risks to the Environment | Risks to Public Health |
|---|---|---|
|
Extreme Heat |
Expected increase in heat-related illnesses and deaths, especially cardiovascular and respiratory diseases |
|
Air Quality |
Worsening of existing, and/or increased incidence of, acute and chronic respiratory disorders such as asthma
|
|
|
Water Quality |
Worsening of existing, and/or increased incidence of:
|
|
|
Chemical Exposure |
Additional illness, injury, or death due to accidental chemical exposure |