April 7 World Health Day 2008

April 7 World Health Day 2008: protecting health from climate change

In 2008, World Health Day focuses on the need to protect health from the adverse effects of climate change. World Health Organization selected this theme in recognition that climate change is posing ever growing threats to global public health securit.

World Health Organization Director-General warns vulnerable populations at greatest risk of projected impacts

7 APRIL 2008 | GENEVA -- Scientists tell us that the evidence the Earth is warming is "unequivocal." Increases in global average air and sea temperature, ice melting and rising global sea levels all help us understand and prepare for the coming challenges. In addition to these observed changes, climate-sensitive impacts on human health are occurring today. They are attacking the pillars of public health. And they are providing a glimpse of the challenges public health will have to confront on a large scale, WHO Director-General Dr Margaret Chan warned today on the occasion of World Health Day.

"The core concern is succinctly stated: climate change endangers human health," said Dr Chan. "The warming of the planet will be gradual, but the effects of extreme weather events -- more storms, floods, droughts and heat waves -- will be abrupt and acutely felt. Both trends can affect some of the most fundamental determinants of health: air, water, food, shelter and freedom from disease." More