Introduction

The environmental effects of climate change are well documented. The public is increasingly aware of physical changes – sea level rise, droughts and heat waves, changes in precipitation, and so on – but what about the impacts on human health? We know we can expect to see more heat waves, but the consequences go beyond mere discomfort of summer months.

Beyond heat waves, changing temperatures can have serious and numerous downstream effects that will impact public health. Some health impacts have already started to manifest, while others may be unexpected. Developing an understanding of how climate change impacts public health, coupled with strong climate policy and public health readiness can help counteract many of the serious effects we can expect to see in the years to come.