Announcement
Climate Change: Our Health in the Balance
April 2, 2008

National Public Health Week -- April 7-13, 2008

This year’s theme, “Climate Change: Our Health in the Balance,” highlights the direct link between climate change and the health of our communities.  

Impact on Public Health

For many, public health makes us think of efforts such as protecting us from disease, promoting good health habits, and preventing injuries. However, it is becoming more well known that issues connected to the environment also impact public health.

One of these issues is climate change.  While the specific causes and timing of climate change remain somewhat debated, there is growing consensus it is real, and will produce very real problems. 

Chief Impact on Weather

Climate change’s chief impact will be related to weather, as rising temperatures increase extreme weather events and alter habitats. This may result in more risk of disease and injury to the public.

Coastal areas will be more affected by heavy rainfall and flooding.  Interior areas of the country will be more at risk for drought and heat emergencies.  Warmer temperatures in all areas will mean more contact with insects and more risk from the diseases they carry.

Some Groups More Effected

While the effects of climate change will be felt by everyone, certain populations will be more vulnerable than others.  These include children, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, such as asthma.

What We Can Each Do

• Sign up to have your name removed from junk mail lists.
  Did you Know the average adult gets 41 lbs of junk mail per year.
• Use cloth bags at stores in place of plastic.
  The average American uses over 1,250 plastic bags each year.
• Use compact fluorescent light bulbs.
  These bulbs use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer.
• Join a car pool, get where your going without driving (walking maps and bus routes), and combine your trips to the market, and other places.
  We spend over $2,000 per year in gas on average.
• Make your own “green” cleaning products.

For more ideas, go to National Public Health Week

Related Links

Climate Change – What others are doing?

Peak Oil – What is it and how is it linked to climate change?

Dual Crises:  Climate Change and Energy – On-line Conference April 10