Scientific Sessions

Climate Change Impacts on Disease Patterns

Climate change is significantly altering the global landscape of public health by shifting disease patterns across regions. Rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events have created favorable conditions for the spread of various infectious diseases. Vector-borne illnesses such as malaria, dengue fever, Lyme disease, and chikungunya are expanding their reach into regions that were previously too cold or dry to support the vectors—mosquitoes and ticks—that carry them. Warmer climates accelerate the life cycles of these vectors and pathogens, increasing transmission rates. Flooding and stagnant water from intense rainfall also contribute to the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera and typhoid. Moreover, heatwaves and droughts are stressing healthcare systems and increasing mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and chronically ill.

In addition to infectious diseases, climate change is intensifying the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. Poor air quality caused by increased wildfires and rising ozone levels can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Food and water insecurity, driven by climate-induced disruptions in agriculture and water supplies, are contributing to malnutrition and related health problems. Mental health disorders are also on the rise due to climate-related displacement, loss of livelihood, and trauma from extreme weather events. These health impacts are not distributed equally, with low-income and developing regions facing the greatest burdens due to weaker healthcare infrastructure and limited adaptive capacity. Addressing the intersection of climate change and disease requires urgent global action through strengthened surveillance systems, climate-resilient health services, and coordinated policies to reduce emissions and protect vulnerable communities.