The topic of climate change has been hotly debated in political circles recently. Some politicians want to do more to address this worldwide phenomenon. Others don’t believe that things are as immediately dangerous. Those working for the Public Health Department are taking concerns regarding climate change very seriously. They are sounding the alarm that the issue needs to be addressed seriously to lessen the effects on public health. Climate changes can happen over long eras even billions of years. Many countries have noticed recent weather trends that were out of the norm for their areas.
Public Health Department Warns, Climate Change Health Effects
Scientists are studying how weather patterns are changing. They note that warmer temperatures at the top of the Arctic region have resulted in more glacier melting. Environmentalists have linked the unstable weather changes to that thick cloud of toxic gases that many factories and vehicles are expelling into the air. This has created a man-made vapor barrier that traps heat in closer to the earth. As a result, more frequent storms arise that have been exceptionally destructive and frightening. When very hot air meets colder air currents, the effect can be deadly with catastrophic hurricanes, tornadoes and other powerful storms wrecking major havoc on the world.
The Public Health Department has been busy interpreting all of the research and studies on global warming and climate change. They have devised a way to confront the issue as it regards to the public health. Those interested in learning more about this subject should check out this infographic chart the officials have developed. Their Building Resilience Against Climate Effects module known as BRACE is a 5 step framework that the CDC department is using to plan for expected public health threats caused by climate change.
Initially, more extreme heat patterns have caused more health problems in people with existing chronic conditions. Hospitals and doctors offices are reporting more heat-related problems like heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Individuals with heart and lung diseases often become very ill during extended hot temperatures. The tremendous drain on the current utility systems has resulted in power outages which can be deadly for young children and the elderly. With increased heat, disease borne illnesses become more prevalent. Mosquitoes and ticks bite more often, and malaria and other diseases have been noted. During huge rainstorms, sewers and water drainage systems can’t keep up and overflow. This can cause contaminated water, flooding and further risks of infections.
Natural disasters, thought by many to be caused as a direct result of climate change, can have devastating effects. This past year, the public has seen horrendous hurricanes, floods, and wildfires. Some places have reported rising sea levels, and surviving a natural disaster can cause anxiety, depression, PTSD and other related mental and emotional problems. These disasters affect our security, health, and economy. Anyone interested in joining the fight on climate changes and other environmental issues is urged to consider pursuing a career in public health.
Individuals can start by studying for a Master of Public Health degree. Many are getting involved by choosing an educational program that offers flexible hours. More online programs are available to meet this increased demand for knowledge. This degree allows individuals to obtain higher level public health positions.
