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Volume 39, Issue 1 (2024)                   GeoRes 2024, 39(1): 49-59 | Back to browse issues page
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Rezaie K, Zarei F. Climatic Reversibility; Exposure Approach to Face Environmental Disturbances in the Field of Health. GeoRes 2024; 39 (1) :49-59
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Authors K. Rezaie1, F. Zarei *2
1- Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Industrial Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
2- Department of Health Education and Health Promotion, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
* Corresponding Author Address: Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Jalal AleAhmad Highway, Nasr Street, Tehran, Iran. Postal Code: 14115-111 (f.zarei@modares.ac.ir)
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Background
Climate change, driven by human activities, has led to global temperature rise, altered precipitation patterns, and rising sea levels. The impacts of these changes on human health and the environment, including significant threats to health determinants like clean air, safe water, and food, are well-documented. Healthcare organizations face a dual challenge of mitigating climate change effects while addressing their own contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.
Previous Studies
Previous studies have explored the impacts of climate change on public health and resilience. Berman et al. (2017) emphasize social vulnerability. Thomson et al. (2023) develop a climate resilience maturity model. Mock et al. (2017) highlight the urgent need for climate-resilient infrastructure in Pakistan. Hartwell et al. (2023) identified barriers and facilitators for public health agencies in responding to climate change. Rocklöv et al. (2023) proposed decision-support tools for emerging infectious diseases. Fehrer et al. (2023) addressed strategies such as digitization and recycling in the healthcare sector.
Aims
The aim of this study was to propose major strategies for addressing environmental risks caused by climate change in the health sector.
Research Type
This study was a systematic review analyzing climate change and health-related studies published between 2023 and 2024.
Research Society, Place, and Time
The research involved analyzing scientific articles published between 2023 and 2024, sourced from international databases such as Elsevier, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.
Sampling Method and Number
A three-phase screening process was conducted. Initially, 60 articles were retrieved using relevant keywords. In the second phase, after removing duplicates and irrelevant studies, 44 articles were shortlisted. Finally, 11 articles underwent detailed evaluation and were included in the final analysis (Table 1).
Used Devices & Materials
The study utilized reputable scientific databases, including Elsevier, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus. Keywords such as "Climate change," "Climate variability," and "Global warming" were used for article searches. The screening process was managed using a PRISMA flow diagram.


Figure 1) The articleD selection process for systematic review presented using the PRISMA flow diagram.

Table 1. Characteristics of Articles Reviewed on Approaches to Address Environmental Disorders Caused by Climate Change in the Health Sector



Findings by text
Climate change significantly impacts health systems, posing direct risks such as extreme weather events and indirect effects like ecosystem disruptions and social instability (Rocklöv et al., 2023; Fehrer et al., 2023). Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns contribute to disease spread, including malaria and dengue, with projections indicating a rise in global populations at risk (IPCC, 2007; Hess et al., 2020). Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, women, and infants, face heightened risks, such as premature births and developmental disorders (Roos et al., 2021). Urban heat islands and poor air quality exacerbate respiratory and cardiovascular issues, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic (Frontera et al., 2020).
Healthcare systems must adapt to extreme weather, energy poverty, and disease proliferation while ensuring accessibility and resilience (Thomson et al., 2023; Hartwell et al., 2023). Climate refugees encounter barriers like unfamiliar healthcare systems and mental health challenges (Riva et al., 2023; Berman et al., 2017). Effective strategies include vulnerability assessments, healthcare worker training, and community resilience initiatives (Tong et al., 2016; Scar & Jangoor, 2023). Social networks and education enhance recovery post-disaster (Norris et al., 2019), turning shared values into tools for climate adaptation. Mitigation and adaptation must progress together to alleviate health and economic burdens (Thomson et al., 2023).
Main Comparisons to Similar Studies
Climate change caused by human activities affects global health through direct impacts like extreme weather events (heatwaves, storms, and floods) and indirect effects, including food insecurity, water scarcity, and the spread of infectious diseases. Vulnerable populations, particularly in low-income regions, face disproportionate health risks due to existing inequalities in resources and adaptive capacities (Omri et al., 2023). Compared to wealthier regions with robust infrastructure and healthcare systems, poorer communities are less equipped to adapt. For example, while some regions can mitigate heatwave-related mortality through advanced cooling systems and healthcare access, others experience significant increases in heat-related deaths due to limited resources (Costello et al., 2009). Similarly, the ability to manage infectious diseases like malaria and dengue varies widely; wealthier nations often deploy extensive public health measures, whereas resource-limited areas struggle with disease prevention and treatment (Friel et al., 2008). The health sector’s response to climate change also differs between countries. Developed nations may integrate climate resilience into health policies and disaster management, while many low-income countries lack the capacity to do so, leaving populations vulnerable to crises like food shortages and forced migrations. This disparity is compounded by unequal access to nutritious food, safe housing, and quality healthcare, intensifying health outcomes globally (Bowen & Friel, 2012). While strategies like geoengineering offer temporary relief, they fail to address root causes and are inaccessible to most low-income regions. To bridge the gap, global efforts must focus on equitable access to sustainable technologies and resources, ensuring that adaptation benefits all communities.
Suggestions
Various sectors like water infrastructure, land-use planning, and transportation integrate climate adaptation strategies, while the health sector is often overlooked. Responsible for disease monitoring and child malnutrition management, it partners in food security and disaster response. No single solution exists; technologies require testing, development, and careful evaluation of side effects.


Conclusion
The impact of climate change on global health and well-being is reaching catastrophic levels, and no country is immune to these risks. Tens of millions of people face the rapid and unpredictable spread of infectious diseases, heatwaves, water and food insecurity, air pollution, poverty, and homelessness. Health systems serve as foundations for resilience at individual and community levels. They function as a vital structure to protect global citizens by providing accessible, affordable, responsive, and reliable care.

Acknowledgments: Not reported by the authors.
Ethical Approval: Not reported by the authors.
Conflict of Interest: Not reported by the authors.
Authors' Contributions: Rezaie K (First Author), Introduction Writer/Statistical Analyst/Discussion Writer (50%); Zarei F (Second Author), Methodologist/Main Researcher/Discussion Writer (50%)
Funding Sources: Not reported by the authors.
Keywords:

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