Climate Change: The Public Health Response

There is widespread scientific consensus that the world's climate is changing. These changes are expected to have substantial human health impacts. The scope of this public health challenge is unprecedented, but for many health threats associated with climate change, there are known, effective public health responses. This session proposes a public health approach to climate change, including primary prevention — efforts to slow, or reverse climate change — and secondary and tertiary prevention — efforts to anticipate and prepare for the effects of climate change. Public health preparedness for climate change is based on the ten essential services of public health. 1) Monitor the health status of the community. 2) Diagnose and investigate health problems in the community. 3) Inform and educate people about health issues. 4) Mobilize community partnerships. 5) Develop policies that support individual and community health efforts. 6) Enforce regulations that protect health and ensure safety. 7) Link people to needed personal health services. 8) Assure a competent public and personal health care workforce. 9) Evaluation of personal and population-based health services. 10) Research for innovative solutions to health problems. An effective public health response to climate change will enhance public health preparedness, and reduce risk in a changing environment.