Which impact of climate change can affect human health?

Increased frequency of heatwaves is a significant impact of climate change that can adversely affect human health. As global temperatures rise, heatwaves are becoming more common and intense. These prolonged periods of excessively high temperatures can lead to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially among vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Additionally, heatwaves can exacerbate existing health issues, increase air conditioning usage (leading to higher energy costs and potential power outages), and strain healthcare systems. The rise in temperature can also contribute to worsened air quality, further impacting respiratory health. Overall, the physiological stress induced by heatwaves plays a crucial role in public health concerns related to climate change.

In contrast, decreased air pollution and reduced incidence of respiratory diseases would not typically be associated with climate change impacts; these would usually suggest positive health outcomes rather than negative. Enhanced food security is generally seen as a positive consequence but is also complicated by climate factors that can lead to crop failures and food shortages, reflecting the complex interplay between climate change and health.