Climate Change and Human Illness

Climate and human health are linked, and a warming climate intensifies that connection. Not only does climate change increase the risk of illness and death from extreme heat, but warming reduces air quality and can promote diseases transmitted by food, water and insects. Extreme weather events even threaten mental health. Scientists can already see effects on some aspects of health from rising temperatures. No continent faces these challenges more acutely than Africa. Read about a range of international efforts across Africa to adapt to these challenges.

To see the full photo essay on climate and health, please visit: http://www.america.gov/multimedia/photogallery.html#/30145/climate_health/

Photo caption: The Climate Change and Adaptation in Africa program, funded by Canada and the United Kingdom, is raising the capacity of African people and organizations to cope with climate change. One project is assessing vulnerability in Ouagadougou’s health and water sectors, identifying urgent adaptation needs and raising awareness among local officials and citizens.

Photo credit: AP Images.