Elevated temperatures associated with climate changes can profoundly affect cardiovascular health (Desai et al., 2023; Khraishah et al., 2022). Consistently, epidemiological and observational studies have demonstrated a correlation between extreme temperatures and increased mortality, particularly from cardiovascular diseases (Singh et al., 2024). A systematic review and meta-analysis of literature published between January 1, 1990, and March 10, 2022, found substantial heterogeneity in mortality and morbidity outcomes due to high temperatures and heatwaves. A 1 °C temperature rise was associated with a 2.1% increase in cardiovascular disease-related mortality, particularly from stroke and coronary heart disease. Morbidity due to arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and coronary heart disease also increased. Heatwaves were also linked to a 17% increase in mortality risk, with greater intensity leading to higher risks (Liu et al., 2022). Vulnerable groups included women, individuals 65 and older, tropical climate residents, and those in lower-middle-income countries. A study conducted in Madrid (2015–2018) involving 6,514 patients revealed a 15.3% increase in the risk of acute cardiovascular events during periods of extreme heat, with males and non-Spanish populations being disproportionately affected (Salvador et al., 2023). Saucy et al., investigated the link between extreme temperature, pollution, aircraft noise, and cardiovascular mortality risk in Zurich, Switzerland. They found that heat poses a particularly stronger risk, especially for myocardial infarctions and hypertension-related deaths The study confirmed previous research showing that older women, especially those with lower socio-economic status and education, are the most vulnerable. Additionally, air pollution was shown to further increase heat-related mortality risk in heart failure cases, though not for all cardiovascular causes (Saucy et al., 2021). A study spanning 2000–2020 across 12 major Canadian cities used generalized additive models to assess daily mortality risks during extreme heat events. The findings revealed elevated mortality risks, particularly for non-accidental, cardiovascular, and respiratory causes. Older adults (aged 65 and above) were more vulnerable, with approximately 670 excess non-accidental deaths, including 115 cardiovascular deaths, attributed to extreme heat during the study period (Quick, 2024).

The pathophysiological mechanism underlying this increased risk for cardiovascular events is well described (Zhang et al., 2022). Briefly, during periods of high-temperature exposure or extreme heat events, the body initiates a thermoregulatory response primarily characterized by an increase in cutaneous blood flow to dissipate heat and maintain core body temperature (Chaseling et al., 2020) leading to sympathetic nervous system activation and elevation in heart rate and stroke volume (Criddle et al., 2024). Sweat evaporation is another major thermoregulatory effector to reduce core body temperature. Excessive sweating can lead to fluid loss, resulting in a reduction in blood volume, which in turn may lead to hypotension (Chaudhary et al., 2023) exacerbating conditions like heart failure and increase the risk of cardiovascular events. Additionally, the reduced plasma volume increases the concentration of red blood cells and platelets, as well as blood viscosity, which can lead to thromboembolism, thereby increasing the risk of ischemic stroke and myocardial infarction (Lim et al., 2013). High body temperature can trigger a systemic inflammatory response mediated by the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (Riggs et al., 2024). This inflammatory cascade, characterized by the release of inflammation mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin 1β (IL-1β), interleukin 8 (IL-8) and interleukin 1 (IL-1), triggers a series of biochemical reactions within the blood vessels, leading to endothelial activation characterized by the adhesion of immune cells and platelets to the vascular endothelium, which facilitates complex interactions between coagulation factors. These events all contribute to a pro-thrombotic state, increasing the risk of intravascular clot formation and thromboembolic events (reviewed in Mol et al., 2024).

Heat stress leads also to a reduction in gut blood flow, which compromises the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier. As a result, increased permeability allows bacteria and endotoxins to translocate from the gut lumen into the systemic circulation, triggering the activation of both the innate and adaptive immune systems and contributing to the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (Pearce et al., 2013). Furthermore, following heat stress, the intestinal epithelium suffers from damage due to the disruption of the differentiation of intestinal stem cells into functional cells and, thus, to an imbalance of tissue homeostasis (Zan et al., 2023).

The elderly have been shown to be more susceptible to heat stress. This could be due to impaired thermoregulatory response, which is influenced not only by age but significantly by sex, as reported by a recent study showing that younger females exhibited the highest whole-body sweat loss, while older individuals, particularly older females, had reduced sweating (Atkins et al., 2024). The frequent use of medication could be another reason why the elderly are more susceptible to heat stress pathologies: heat exposure can affect drug absorption, distribution, and elimination potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular mortality (Zhang et al., 2022).

Extreme environmental heat can lead to heatstroke, a serious heat-related disorder characterized by a rapid elevation of core body temperature exceeding 40 °C. This condition results in damage to organs and tissues, caused not only by the cytotoxic effects of the heat but also from the release of inflammatory agents and by dysregulated coagulation (Bouchama and Knochel, 2002).

The elderly and individuals with cardiovascular disease or other chronic conditions that prevent efficient heat dissipation are at higher risk of heatstroke (Marchand and Gin, 2022). Heatstroke patients who develop disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) have a significantly higher risk of mortality, compared to those without DIC complications (Lin et al., 2024). The presence of cardiovascular disease also increases the risk of death associated to heatstroke (Lin et al., 2024).

Heatstroke is gaining increased prevalence throughout the world due to a steady rise in temperature, and significant mortality has been recorded among vulnerable populations. In Karachi, Pakistan, during an extreme heatwave on 24 June 2024, more than 1,500 people suffering of heatstroke were treated at various hospitals across the city (Khan and Mubeen, 2025).

As climate change continues to drive the increasing frequency and intensity of heat waves, healthcare systems must implement proactive strategies to reduce risks of heat-related diseases, especially among vulnerable groups. Therefore, understanding the molecular mechanisms affected by heat exposure is essential for developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies against heatstroke and worsening of pre-existing pathologies caused by prolonged exposure to elevated environmental temperature.

In this paragraph we will review the most recent findings on the molecular and cellular processes affected by the heat (Figure 2). Studies involving human volunteers exposed to extreme heat in a sauna environment (75 °C) showed significant changes in gene expression even without a proportional increase in core body temperature. The genes with altered expression are involved in stress-related processes such as energy metabolism, cell survival, and immune function. Key changes also included mitochondrial dysfunction and altered protein synthesis (Bouchama et al., 2017).

The mechanisms underlying the inflammatory response associated with heat stress have been investigated across various cell types and tissues. In skeletal muscle, acute heat exposure (6 h at 37 °C) activates the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) signaling pathways, indicated by elevated IkappaB kinase α (IKK-α) and nuclear AP-1 levels (Ganesan et al., 2017). In monocytes isolated from healthy volunteers, exposure to 43 °C further increases the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced release of inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and interleukin 10 (IL-10), alongside with reactive oxygen species (ROS) production while suppressing their phagocytic activity. This altered response is accompanied by changes in immune-related surface molecules like the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 1 (TREM-1), toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4), and cluster of differentiation 86 (CD86) (Luo et al., 2019). In C2C12 myoblasts subjected to prolonged heat stress (15 h), phosphorylation of p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) was enhanced, leading to the activation of inflammatory factors including the NLR family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome, interleukin 6 (IL-6), and interleukin 18 (IL-18), through a lysophosphatidic acid receptor-mediated mechanism and changes were suppressed by treatment with non-saponin component of ginseng (Chei et al., 2020). In fibroblasts, heat exposure at 43 °C resulted in increased expression of Z-DNA binding protein-1 (ZBP1) via heat shock factor 1 (HSF1), which then triggered receptor-interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK3)-dependent necroptosis, a regulated form of cell death (Yuan et al., 2022). Lastly, pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells exposed to both heat stress and LPS showed significant endothelial glycocalyx (EGCX) degradation, along with elevated oxidative stress, pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and enhanced apoptosis (Chen et al., 2023). Developmental studies have shown that the Notch pathway, a major regulator of functions of cardiomyocyte, endothelial cells and macrophages (Fortini et al., 2017, 2025; Severi et al., 2024) is sensitive to changes in temperature (Moreno Acosta et al., 2023; Nomura et al., 2022).

Studies conducted on runners to investigate the effects of exertional heat have shown the induction of intestinal lesions, impaired toxin elimination, and increased release of inflammatory cytokines in plasma (Snipe et al., 2018). A recent study explored the protective effects of lonicerin, a flavonoid, against intestinal injury and systemic inflammation induced by heat stress. Using a rat model exposed to 42 °C, the research demonstrated that lonicerin reduced intestinal injury by activating the AMP-activated protein kinase/sirtuin 1 (AMPK/SIRT1) axis, promoting autophagy, and reducing the levels of inflammatory cytokines (Sun et al., 2025).

Animal models have significantly contributed to understanding of the effects of heat stress on the vascular system, helping to address the worsening of cardiovascular disease during heat waves. These models have confirmed in vitro findings of increased oxidative stress, inflammatory mediators, and thrombotic factors (Mol et al., 2024). This oxidative unbalance and release of inflammatory markers reduces nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability, increases lipid peroxidation, and promotes mitochondrial dysfunction and DNA damage, all of which contribute to endothelial dysfunction, a crucial event in the development of atherosclerosis and in the worsening other CVDs (Cimaglia et al., 2022; Fortini et al., 2021; Vieceli Dalla Sega et al., 2022, 2024). Consistently, in animals exposed to heat stress were observed histopathological changes, such as accumulation of fat cells and cholesterol deposition in the blood vessels, disruption of heart tissue, and, in severe heatstroke cases, myocardial necrosis and myofiber degeneration, signs associated with advanced ischemic cardiomyopathy and myocardial infarction. Various types of cardiomyopathies have also been observed (Figure 2) (Mol et al., 2024).

All these studies point to the use of anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptosis and anti-coagulant agents, including phytochemicals, to interfere with the heat-mediated damages to the cardiovascular system (Mol et al., 2024). Of interest, observation in patients and in vitro have shown that heat acclimation alleviates the heat stress-induced impairment of vascular endothelial cells (Wen et al., 2024).

Several studies have specifically focused on the molecular mechanism altered by heatstroke. Heatstroke alters gene expression in peripheral blood cells: transcriptome analysis of a cohort of subjects exposed to heat conditions who developed heatstroke versus those who did not revealed upregulation of heat shock proteins (HSPs), suppression of genes involved in ATP production, unfolded protein response, DNA repair, oxidative stress responses, and activation and impairment of genes related to innate or adaptive immunity, respectively (Bouchama et al., 2023). Exosome analysis from heatstroke patients identified significant up-or down-regulation of proteins such as serum amyloid A-1, von Willebrand factor, and histone H3, as well as genes associated with inflammation, platelet activation, and immune responses (Li Y. et al., 2023).

In rodent models of heatstroke, brain cell lesions were observed alongside a robust inflammatory response characterized by increased secretion of tumor necrosis factor-β1 (TNF-β1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1). Additionally, heatstroke upregulated metalloproteinases 2 (MMP2) and 9 (MMP9) and ROS, while downregulating anti-oxidative stress enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase. These effects were mitigated by inhibiting the JAK2/STAT3 (Janus kinase 2/signal transducers and activators of transcription 3) signaling pathway, suggesting its critical role in the heatstroke response (Tao et al., 2015). A different study in a rat model of heatstroke revealed that coagulation dysfunction associated with heat stroke is due ROS-mediated damage of the endothelial glycocalyx and that the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine protected endothelial glycocalyx integrity by attenuating ROS production (Peng et al., 2023).

While global warming is the dominant trend, extreme cold events could occur due to the fact that the Arctic is warming faster than the rest of the globe (Rantanen et al., 2022), and these changes could influence the behavior of the polar vortex, leading to more extreme cold weather in lower latitudes (Yamanouchi and Takata, 2020).

Extreme cold also contributes substantially to mortality. A study across 50 U.S. cities found that extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, accounted for 5.74 and 1.59% of deaths due to myocardial infarction and cardiac arrest, respectively (Medina-Ramón and Schwartz, 2007). Similarly, a study in China analyzing 1.8 million deaths across 272 cities (2013–2015) found that 14% of deaths were attributed to non-optimal temperatures and extreme cold posed greater long-term risks, while extreme heat had immediate but short-lived effects. Elderly, women, individuals with low educational attainment, and residents of urban areas with inadequate heating were the most vulnerable groups (Chen et al., 2018).

Exposure to low temperatures can significantly exacerbate cardiovascular risks, as demonstrated by both acute and prolonged cold exposure. Cold environments increase cardiac workload, especially in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure, leading to greater strain on the heart and potentially causing ischemia, angina, and impaired exercise performance (Ikäheimo, 2018). The results of a meta-analysis showed that a decrease in temperature has been associated with a 1.6% increase in cardiovascular disease-related mortality and a 1.2% increase in morbidity for each 1 °C drop, with coronary heart disease mortality and aortic aneurysm morbidity being particularly impacted. Factors such as age, country income level, and climate zone influence the impact of cold weather on cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, cold spells significantly impact the outcome of cardiovascular diseases, raising mortality by 32.4% and morbidity by 13.8% (Fan et al., 2023). Of interest, a study conducted in Thessaloniki, Greece, where the population is acclimated to heat, highlighted higher cardiovascular mortality at moderately cold temperatures, with women more vulnerable to the effects of cold (Psistaki et al., 2023).

Storms and floods affect human health by causing drowning, injuries caused by contact with objects in floodwater, hypothermia, and electrical injuries. Epidemiological studies have shown that climate change is increasing the risk of drowning (Sindall et al., 2022) and floods-related health risks, such as fatalities, injuries, and mental health challenges (Wu et al., 2024b).

Storms and floods have also an indirect effect on human health by facilitating the transmission of waterborne and vector-borne diseases (Brown and Murray, 2013; Okaka and Odhiambo, 2018). A comparative study conducted in Vietnam following heavy rainfall in late October 2008 revealed elevated occurrences of dengue fever, conjunctivitis, dermatitis, and psychological disorders in municipalities significantly impacted by flooding, in contrast to those not affected (Bich et al., 2011).

Floods have been linked to increased mortality risks, particularly in low-income regions and among older populations. A global study analyzing 47.6 million deaths across 761 communities in 35 countries found that flood-related mortality risks persisted for up to 60 days post-exposure (Yang et al., 2023). Additionally, a UK Biobank study revealed a 6.7% increase in all-cause mortality risk per unit increase in cumulative flood exposure, with varying risks depending on the cause and time after flooding (Wu et al., 2024a).

Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. As reported by the United States Environmental Protection Agency, in the U.S. there has been an increase in wildfires since 1983, and the extension of the area burned has also grown, with peaks coinciding with many of the warmest years. Wildfires cause approximately 4,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S., with the West and metropolitan areas near fire sources being most affected by wildfire-induced particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micron in diameter (PM2.5) (Pan et al., 2023).

A recent study estimated that, in the U.S. from 2006 to 2020, climate change contributed to approximately 15,000 deaths associated with wildfire particulate matter (Law et al., 2025). Another study reported an increase in global population exposure to landscape-fire sourced air pollution during 2010–2019 compared to 2000–2009. This exposure was higher in low-income countries in comparison to high-income countries (Xu et al., 2023).

Vector-borne diseases are infections transmitted by the bites of blood-feeding arthropods, like ticks and mosquitoes. These diseases are among the most thoroughly researched in relation to climate change because of their prevalence and responsiveness to environmental conditions. Research has shown that rising temperatures driven by climate change can promote pathogen transmission by mosquitoes, thereby facilitating the spread of infectious diseases (Bellone et al., 2023; Thomson and Stanberry, 2022). Climate change has a substantial effect on the transmission of vector-borne diseases also by altering other factors, such as precipitation, and wind patterns. In the next paragraphs we will examine the most studied vector-borne disease in relation to climate changes: malaria and dengue fever.

Malaria, caused by a Plasmodium parasite transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes has caused 409,000 deaths in the world in 2019 only (Al-Awadhi et al., 2021). An analysis conducted in Kenya revealed that the abundance, distribution and transmission of the malaria vectors carried by mosquitoes are influenced by environmental factors, such as precipitation and temperature (Kelly-Hope et al., 2009). In a study of the impact of temperature increase from 1970 to 2003 on malaria incidence in East Africa’s mountainous regions, a non-linear increase in malaria cases due to global warming was observed. However, the expected size of the epidemic was smaller than observed, indicating that other factors may amplify the effects of climate change on malaria transmission (Alonso et al., 2011). In agreement with this observation, it has been reported that the influence of climate changes on parasite transmission is not solely due to increased average temperature, but also to daily fluctuations. Indeed, these fluctuations make transmission possible at lower average temperatures than predicted and could potentially block transmission at higher average temperatures (Paaijmans et al., 2010). Furthermore, diurnal variation in temperature and humidity influences mosquitoes and parasites. A study conducted in India explored the incubation periods of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium vivax across different microhabitats throughout the year. It was found that warm and stable conditions promote rapid parasite development and extend the lifespan of Plasmodium parasites, up to 15 days for Plasmodium falciparum and 24 days for Plasmodium vivax (Thomas et al., 2018). Increasing temperatures could also promote malaria transmission in Europe. Indeed, Anopheles mosquitoes are becoming more stable and widespread, increasing the risk of prolonged transmission periods in certain areas (Lovey and Schlagenhauf, 2023). As temperatures rise, it is expected a northward spread of Anopheles mosquitoes and an extended transmission season, potentially allowing malaria transmission for up to 6 months annually between 2051 and 2080 (Fischer et al., 2020).

Dengue is a viral disease transmitted by mosquito Aedes aegypti. A large body of evidence collected in Malaysia shows that climate change influences its transmission through rising temperatures, increased precipitation and humidity (Hii et al., 2016). A study conducted in Europe found that climatic conditions are becoming more favorable for the establishment of the Asian tiger mosquito (Aedes albopictus), another dengue vector, in northern regions, while southern areas are becoming less hospitable (Caminade et al., 2012). Similarly, in north-western China, raising temperatures and increased precipitation significantly impacted the distribution of Aedes albopictus (Wu et al., 2011), increasing the risk for future epidemic for dengue fever in this region. Consistently, in the region of Guangzhou, China, precipitation, humidity, and temperature have been found positively associated with dengue incidence, whereas wind speed was inversely related to the disease spread (Lu et al., 2009). Similar climate-related patterns have been observed in Singapore (Gui et al., 2021). Another meteorological event positively associated with the spread of dengue is typhoons because they contribute to extreme rainfall and elevated water accumulation, creating mosquito breeding sites (Kao et al., 2023). Similarly, increased rainfall in Bangladesh has led significant changes in river water levels, expanding areas suitable for mosquito breeding and leading to an increase in dengue hospitalizations (Hashizume et al., 2012). Another factor contributing to the spread of dengue is water storage practices. In Colombia, households store water during dry seasons which provide breeding sites for the mosquitoes responsible for the disease but not in cooler cities. This study shows that climate change impact A. aegypti production also through human behavioral adaptations. The multifaceted effects on mosquito breeding, distribution, and human behavior create a dynamic web of risk factors. Understanding these regional variations and their interactions is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies and preventing future outbreaks (Padmanabha et al., 2010).

Bacteria and protozoa naturally present in water, as well as zoonotic pathogens originating from animal waste, can enter our bodies through contaminated water, either by accidental ingestion, or direct contact with our eyes, ears, or wounds. Shellfish can accumulate pathogens from the aquatic environment, and the use of contaminated water for irrigation can spread them to crops. Climate change is amplifying our exposure to a range of waterborne and foodborne pathogens. Impacting the growth, survival, and virulence of pathogens, and indirectly disrupting ecosystems and animal habitats, potentially creating new pathways for zoonotic diseases to jump species (Dupke et al., 2023). In the next paragraphs we will discuss the most studied waterborne and foodborne pathogens in relation to climate changes: Vibrio and Salmonella.

Vibrio species, including V. cholerae, the causative agent of cholera, are waterborne pathogens transmitted through the consumption or exposure to contaminated water or seafood (Baker-Austin et al., 2018). Rising temperature, increased precipitation, and salinity fluctuations create favorable condition for the growth of these bacteria, influencing their geographical and seasonal distribution, ultimately affecting the risk of Vibrio infections (Velez et al., 2023). Consistently, regions endemic for cholera exhibit a strong correlation between water temperature and incidence of this disease (Reyburn et al., 2011). Heavy rainfall events, intensified by climate change, further promote pathogen transmission by altering water quality and microbial composition (Shih et al., 2021). Another environmental factor associated with the spread of Vibrio is rising ocean temperatures. A clear positive relationship between Vibrio abundance and sea surface temperature in the North Sea has been demonstrated through DNA analysis of formalin-fixed samples from the historical Continuous Plankton Recorder archive, collected over 44 years (Vezzulli et al., 2012).

Salmonella species are foodborne zoonotic agents whose growth is influenced by temperature, varying by the food type. For instance, its optimal growth temperature is around 37 °C in chicken (Juneja et al., 2007) and around 25 °C in cooked ham (Szczawińska et al., 2014). Climate change, particularly rising temperatures and extreme weather events, has been linked to increased Salmonella infections. Monthly data on Salmonella outbreaks in Mississippi, Tennessee, and Alabama were analysed over a nine-year period and correlated with meteorological data. The results showed a positive correlation between rising temperatures and Salmonella epidemics (Akil et al., 2014). A study conducted in Maryland showed a close link between extreme heat exposure, extreme precipitation, and Salmonella infection (Morgado et al., 2021). A positive correlation between high temperature and Salmonella cases has also been observed in Europe, where the incidence of salmonellosis rises during warmer periods (European Food Safety Authority and European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, 2022). Climate change, particularly warmer temperatures and extreme weather events, appears to exacerbate Salmonella outbreaks, underscoring the importance of monitoring and mitigating the impacts of global warming on public health.

Air quality and climate change are deeply interconnected through complex mechanisms. Both anthropogenic and natural sources of air pollution significantly contribute to climate change, while climate change, in turn, worsens air quality in polluted regions by altering ventilation patterns, precipitation models, and increasing the concentration of pollutants (Fiore et al., 2015; Wang et al., 2022).

A key air pollutant is tropospheric (or surface) ozone (O₃), located in the lower atmosphere. The health effects of tropospheric ozone are severe and manifest both in the short and long term. Prolonged exposure to high levels of ozone has been associated with an increased risk of mortality from respiratory diseases, such as pneumonia and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (Jerrett et al., 2009). Short-term effects include respiratory symptoms, including worsening of asthma, along with ocular irritations (Desqueyroux et al., 2002). Tropospheric ozone is influenced by the complex interaction between human activities and meteorological patterns and it is clearly affected by climate changes (Cooper, 2019). A U.S.-focused study evaluated how near-term climate change (by 2030) may impact ground-level ozone and public health. Using two climate models under different greenhouse gas scenarios, the researchers project temperature increases of 1–4 °C and ozone concentration rises of 1–5 ppb. These changes are expected to result in up to thousands of additional premature deaths and illnesses annually, along with increased healthcare utilization (Fann et al., 2015). Climate change can exacerbate the occurrence of allergic rhinitis and asthma by altering various aspects of the pollen season. Pollen grains can also interact with air pollutants and be affected by thunderstorms, further worsening respiratory symptoms (D’Amato et al., 2023). Lastly, climate change may affect fine particulate matter (PM10-2.5) (Bhattarai et al., 2024), which has adverse effects on vascular endothelial function (Li J. et al., 2023) and it has been linked to increased mortality related to heart failure (Saucy et al., 2021). Furthermore, PM10-2.5 together with nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and O₃ has been linked to an increased risk of physical disabilities in older adults, underscoring the multiple ways in which air pollution impacts human health (Gao et al., 2024).

Ozone in the stratosphere absorbs most of the ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the Sun. The Montreal Protocol, aimed to protect the stratospheric ozone layer by reducing the emission ozone-depleting substances produced by industrial activities, has led to gradual ozone recovery, with mid-latitudes expected to return to 1980 levels before mid-century. However, strong interactions between ozone depletion and meteorological condition affected by climate change such as clouds and aerosols. Limit our confidence in predicting the future levels of UV radiation (McKenzie et al., 2011). Increased UV exposure poses significant risks to human health, particularly to the eyes. UV-A and UV-B radiation contribute to cataracts and retinal damage, while short blue light (400–440 nm) increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration in older adults. Solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) has well-established adverse effects on the skin, particularly in individuals with poorly melanized skin. These effects can be acute, such as erythema (Harrison and Young, 2002) or chronic, leading to skin cancers (Al-Sadek and Yusuf, 2024). Additionally, chronic UV exposure leads to photoaging, a gradual process marked by changes in skin metabolism and oxidative stress due to altered enzyme activity (Gromkowska-Kępka et al., 2021).

A literature review explored the association between climate change and the incidence of skin cancer It is reported that skin cancer rates have been rising globally, particularly since the mid-20th century, and that this increase is strongly linked to factors associated with climate change, such as the depletion of stratospheric ozone and consequent increased exposure to UV radiation (Parker, 2021). Climate change-related variables, including increased UV exposure, have been linked to a rising occurrence of cataracts, glaucoma, periocular tumors, and eye infections (Wong et al., 2024).

Climate change is one of the main threats to food security by affecting the quantity, quality, accessibility of food from crops, fisheries, and livestock, with serious consequences for nutritional health (Heikonen et al., 2025; Myers et al., 2017). For example, global warming affects fishing, altering the chemical composition of aquatic environments such as salinity, oxygen concentration, and acidification, thus reducing the maximum body weight of fish species and limiting capture potential (Huang et al., 2021).

This uncertainty in food production exacerbates nutrient deficiencies and increases the vulnerability of populations already exposed to food insecurity (Swinburn et al., 2019). A study conducted in Kilifi County, Kenya, highlighted how changes in weather patterns negatively affect local nutritional quality and food production. In particular, irregular rainfall patterns for at least 4 years led to reduced milk production, lack of food diversity, increasing drought, and ultimately high levels of poverty, making the county one of the most affected by malnutrition in Kenya (Cheruiyot et al., 2022).

Several studies have also shown that the increase in temperature related to climate change is associated with an increase in hospital admissions for malnutrition. A study conducted in Brazil, analyzing data collected over a 15-year period in over 1,500 cities, found that every 1 °C increase in temperature was correlated with a 2.5% increase in malnutrition-related hospital admissions. The populations most vulnerable to these effects were those aged over 80, children aged 0–4 years, and adolescents aged 5–19 years. This study indicates that climate warming may increase malnutrition morbidity not only by threatening food security but also through reduced food intake, impaired digestion and absorption function, and fluid and electrolyte disturbances (Xu et al., 2019). There is strong evidence indicating that children’s health can be affected in a dual mode can be underweight (short, wasted, or deficient in essential micronutrients) and at the same time overweight or obese by these negative effects of climate changes to food systems (Agostoni et al., 2023). Predictive models on the availability of agricultural products in the context of climate change suggest that by 2050, global food availability per capita could decrease by 3.2%, with a 4% reduction in fruit and vegetable consumption and a 0.7% reduction in red meat consumption. This scenario is expected to cause approximately 529,000 climate-related deaths, making it urgent to adopt strategies to stabilize the climate and mitigate the negative impacts on agricultural systems and global health (Springmann et al., 2016).

The relation between climate changes, food production and human health is complex. Global warming impacts eating habits. For example, during heat periods, we tend to adopt a sedentary lifestyle, while rising prices of fruits and vegetables lead to greater consumption of processed foods and refreshing drinks, increasing the risk of developing obesity (An et al., 2018). Furthermore, food systems themselves contribute to climate change. Agriculture significantly contributes to climate change by emitting greenhouse gas (GHGs). Animal-based food production alone is responsible for 57% of food-related emissions, mainly due to enteric fermentation, manure, and feeding processes. Other contributors include synthetic fertilizers, fossil fuel use, and deforestation. Additionally, food processing, transportation, refrigeration, cooking, and food waste throughout the supply chain also emit GHGs and impact the climate (Filho et al., 2022).

Climate change has been linked to negative impacts on mental health. A review conducted in UK showed that people exposed to extreme weather events showed high prevalence of depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Cruz et al., 2020). Individuals exposed to floods show a significant increase in levels of anxiety and depression, with key factors influencing poor mental health identified as water depth and the absence of flood alerts (Robin et al., 2020). The severity of flood-related disasters has also been linked to PTSD symptoms in tourists returning from affected areas, as demonstrated by a study on the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunami, which examined its repercussions on three Scandinavian tourist populations (Heir et al., 2011). A study using data from the 2017–2018 Houston Health Survey estimated the effects of Hurricane Harvey on a local community, showing that after the storm, Houston adults experienced an average increase of 1.12 days per month of poor physical health and an increase of 1.31 days per month of poor mental health. These effects were most pronounced in areas of the city where the storm caused more severe structural damage (Bozick, 2021). In fact, the likelihood of experiencing mental distress increases with the severity of disaster exposure, which causes not only physical injuries, loss of life, or significant family damage but also property damage, loss of social support, and socio-economic decline (Schwartz et al., 2017; Joseph et al., 2014; Zwiebach et al., 2010).

Heatwaves also have a direct impact on mental health, contributing to the onset of mood disorders, schizophrenia, and neurotic disorders. However, the associations between heat exposure (both high ambient temperatures and heatwaves) and mortality and morbidity related to mental health vary across studies and locations. An analysis showed that for every 1 °C increase in temperature there was a 2.2% increase in mental health-related mortality and a 0.9% increase in mental health-related morbidity with populations living in tropical climates, as well as individuals aged over 65, being particularly vulnerable (Liu et al., 2021). Similarly, at temperatures above 23 °C, each 1 °C increase has been associated with a greater than 7% increase in the risk of major depression, with men aged 65 and older being the most vulnerable to heat-related major depression (Chen et al., 2019).

Wildfires, attributed to climate change, have been found to have a significant impact on mental health, particularly when exposure levels are high (Silveira et al., 2021). Poor dietary habits, induced by climate change, can exacerbate mental health issues such as depression (Lassale et al., 2019). Food insecurity has been associated with psychotic disorders, depression, which can lead to domestic violence against women, and behavioral disorders in children, as demonstrated by studies conducted in England (Melchior et al., 2009).

Hospitals and healthcare systems contribute significantly to GHG emissions through energy consumption for heating, cooling, operating medical equipment, and performing medical procedures (Comes et al., 2024; Pichler et al., 2019; Tennison et al., 2021). Additionally, emissions arise from patients and staff transportation, as well as waste management. Consequently, it is imperative to develop novel strategies to reduce healthcare carbon footprint. One such strategy is improving prescribing practices. Optimizing medication prescribing can make a significant contribution to reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare facilities. A prime example is personalized medicine where treatment is tailored to a patient’s specific clinical, genetic, and environmental exposure profile (Evans et al., 2024; Swen et al., 2011). This approach not only enhances clinical outcomes but may also reduce resource use and hospital admissions. Some authors have nevertheless highlighted the environmental impact to generate, process, and store large amount of data necessary for a personalized approach to medical care (Samuel and Lucassen, 2023).

A case in point is the treatment of high cardiovascular risk type 2 diabetes with empagliflozin (EMPA) a sodium-glucose-transporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) which reduces glucose levels by enhancing glucose excretion (Ndefo et al., 2015). In these patients, treatment with EMPA, as opposed to placebo, resulted in a reduced rate of the primary composite cardiovascular outcome and of death from any cause when the study drug was added to standard care (Zinman et al., 2015). Similarly, dapagliflozin (DAPA), a different inhibitor SGLT2, reduced the risk of both initial and overall non-elective hospitalisation for any cause in patients with T2D (Schechter et al., 2023). EMPA treatment was associated with a lower incidence of both total cardiovascular hospitalisations and heart failure-related admissions, when compared to sitagliptin, a dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP-4i) and GLP1-RA, an agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor, both used to control glucose in older patients with T2D (Desai et al., 2022). Recent studies have shown that EMPA reduces the frequency of major cardiovascular events in patients with heart failure, regardless the presence of diabetes (McMurray et al., 2019; Packer et al., 2021; Voors et al., 2022). These findings suggest that EMPA, and gliflozins in general, by reducing the frequency of hospitalization for heart failure, could have positive effects on climate change by reducing the carbon footprint of healthcare facilities. Several studies have supported this hypothesis. A study compared data from 441 patients treated with EMPA to 13,122 patients treated with other antihyperglycemic agents and found that treatment with EMPA was associated with fewer visits to healthcare facilities compared with other branded antihyperglycemic agents (Raju et al., 2022). In a comparative study between EMPA and DPP-4i, that examined healthcare utilization and costs in diabetic patients, a significant reduction in hospitalisation frequency and healthcare costs was demonstrated in the group of patients treated with EMPA (Htoo et al., 2023).

In addition to prescribing practices, other clinical strategies can enhance environmental sustainability and reduce healthcare costs without compromising patient outcomes. To increase environmental sustainability and for health-care spending reduction, specialty drug dosing could be optimised. A retrospective analysis using a cohort of patients from the Veterans Health Administration showed that alternative pembrolizumab delivery strategies may offer environmental advantages over the current dosing without compromising clinical outcomes (Bryant et al., 2024). During the COVID-19 pandemic, the antidepressant fluvoxamine (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) was associated with a reduction in the risk of COVID-19 related hospitalization and mortality (Reis et al., 2022). Anaesthesia practices also present opportunities for environmental improvement. A French study assessed the environmental impact of two anaesthesia strategies over a two-year period. A strategy based exclusively on total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) and a mixed approach combining TIVA with volatile anaesthesia. The results showed a 20-fold reduction in the carbon footprint associated with hypnotic drugs in facilities that adopted the exclusive TIVA strategy (Bernat et al., 2024).

Preventive healthcare measures can greatly contribute to reduce the carbon footprint of healthcare. For example, colorectal cancer screenings, have been shown to reduce cancer care–related GHG emissions (Yusuf et al., 2024). Likewise, adopting diets associated with lower GHG emissions—such as those low in red meat—not only have a direct beneficial effect on the environment, but have been linked to reductions in metabolic syndrome and myocardial infarction which indirectly can lower hospitalization rates (Aljahdali et al., 2023; Álvarez-Álvarez et al., 2024; García et al., 2023). In another preventive strategy, identifying patients with multiple chronic conditions who live in urban heat islands and prescribing devices like air conditioner, heat pump, and/or air purifier could reduce heat-related hospitalization (DeVoe et al., 2023).

Technological advances also offer promising solutions for reducing the healthcare carbon footprint. Continuous glucose monitoring and personalized insulin delivery systems can improve disease management while potentially reducing the frequency of hospital visits (Pickup, 2015). Inhaler technology also plays a role. A recent study conducted in 12 European countries and the United States assessed the environmental impact of inhaler choices in the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Researchers evaluated the potential reduction in carbon footprint by switching patients from pressurized metered dose inhalers and dry powder inhalers to reusable soft-mist inhalers within the same therapeutic class. The results showed that this transition could significantly reduce CO₂ emissions, with reductions ranging from 9.5 to 92.6% (Janson et al., 2023). Similarly, a study evaluated the waste generated by eyedrop packaging used to treat dry eye disease in Germany and found that single-dose units produced substantially more waste than multi-dose units, emphasizing the need for more sustainable packaging solutions in ophthalmology to reduce the environmental footprint of dry eye therapy (Schilcher et al., 2024).

Telemedicine significantly contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the healthcare sector by drastically lowering the emissions associated with patients transportation. A review of the existing studies has shown that each remote consultation avoids the emission of quantity of CO₂ ranging between 372 and 0.7 kg. It has also been calculated that the emissions associated with telemedicine are negligible compared to the savings achieved (Purohit et al., 2021). Two Swedish rehabilitation centres reported that, replacing physical visits with teleconsultation appointments resulted in a significant reduction (40 to 70 times) in carbon emissions. These practices are particularly convenient for patients who can only attend appointments by car (Holmner et al., 2014). Telemedicine represents also an opportunity to reduce the environmental impact associated with the management and follow-up of cancer patients, who typically require numerous routine visits. A comparative study conducted by the National Cancer Institute in Florida looked at two groups of patients: those located within 1 h of the centre and those more than 1 h away. Telemedicine reduced carbon emissions by 424,471 kg for patients within 1 hour of the centre and by 2,744,248 kg for those more than 1 h away (Patel et al., 2023).

Socioeconomic status is a critical determinant of health outcomes and is exacerbated by the impact of climate change. Telemedicine is a promising strategy to mitigate these challenges by reducing healthcare costs. By decreasing the need for patient travel, which is a significant financial burden for disadvantaged populations, telemedicine can improve access to healthcare. Numerous studies have demonstrated that telemedicine lowers overall healthcare expenditures compared to in-person visits (Dullet et al., 2017; Miah et al., 2019; Robinson et al., 2017).

Over half of the world’s population now lives in urban areas, a trend that continues to increase due to economic development, cultural changes, and the pursuit of better living conditions. Projections suggest that by 2050, nearly 70% of the global population will reside in cities (Change, 2014). There is evidence showing that urbanization and climate changes are related. High temperature-related disruptive effects on agriculture productivity drives urbanization (Helbling and Meierrieks, 2023). Urbanization, in turn, has led to increased energy consumption, contributing to significant GHG emissions (accessed on 15 December 2022) (Luqman et al., 2023). Furthermore, increased settlement density alters local microclimates and exacerbates heat and pollution, creating the so called “urban heat island” (Cichowicz and Bochenek, 2024) which negatively affects human health (Antoniou et al., 2024). Modification of urban settings are therefore crucial mitigation and adaptation strategies to counteract the deleterious impacts of climate change.

A recent study has investigated, in a neighbourhood context, the effectiveness of the application of cool materials on urban surfaces in improving microclimatic parameters (Giorio and Paparella, 2023). A different approach for microclimate control to reinstate comfort and usability was tested in a case study employing a degraded and unused space [an amphitheatre in Isla de la Cartuja, Seville (Spain)] in which a system utilizing nocturnally cooled water was used to generate cold air during diurnal periods. The results showed that outdoor thermal comfort (below 28 °C) can be achieved even when surrounding temperatures exceed 40 °C (Medina et al., 2022). A crucial approach to achieve microclimate regulation and human thermal comfort in urban areas relies on green infrastructure, such as trees, green roofs, green walls and the less investigated blue infrastructures, such as ponds and fountains (Kumar et al., 2024). A study has examined the effects of different blue-green infrastructure strategies on the microclimate and human thermal comfort in Melbourne’s Central Business District. The use of simulation software, has revealed that tree-based blue-green infrastructures are the most effective in lowering air temperatures and enhancing thermal comfort (Balany et al., 2022).

Changing our lifestyle could significantly reduce our carbon footprint and, consequently, the causes of climate change. These changes include adopting sustainable transportation practices, improving household energy efficiency, and adopting other low-carbon consumption behaviors.

Switching from private car use to public transportation, cycling, or walking can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in urban areas, as demonstrated by the implementation of travel demand management strategies in Seoul’s Green Transport Zone (Kwak et al., 2024). A study conducted across seven European cities calculated CO₂ emissions using different transportation modes. The results show that daily CO₂ emissions amount to 3.2 kg per person, with cars contributing 70% of these emissions, while bicycles account for only 1%. Furthermore, these emissions decrease by 14% for each trip made by bicycle and by 62% for each avoided car trip (Brand et al., 2021).

In addition to changing our daily travel habits, modifying our dietary habits can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. A study conducted in Iran to predict GHG emissions based on dietary choices showed that a diet high in vegetables and low in red and white meat, eggs, cereals, and sweets significantly reduce CO₂ emissions (Noormohammadi et al., 2022). Plant-based dietary patterns significantly not only reduce GHG emissions but also mitigate land use and biodiversity loss, compared to conventional diets, even though the impact on water and energy use may vary depending on specific food choices (Carey et al., 2023).

Despite the documented environmental benefits of plant-based diets, strategies aimed at modifying consumer habits are difficult to implement. A study conducted in Switzerland showed that residents who were randomly given information on food labels specifying CO₂ emissions were more motivated to change their eating habits. This suggests that providing information about CO₂ emissions on food labels can strengthens individuals’ intentions to adopt more sustainable diets and supports policies promoting mandatory CO₂ labelling (Maier, 2024). To address the complexity of establishing a healthy nutrition system aimed at reducing the carbon footprint, a dietary model that minimizes GHG emissions while considering nutritional needs and food preferences has been proposed. Based on the analysis of the current dietary habits of Italian adults, two scenarios were considered: minimizing environmental impact and minimizing changes to current dietary habits. The combination of these two scenarios resulted in a dietary model of 2,100 kcal/day with 49% carbohydrates, 16% proteins, 31% fats, and 4% fibers, achieving a 49% reduction of GHG emission compared to the current average diet (Biasini et al., 2023).

Lifestyle modifications include actions aimed to the lowering of household carbon footprints such as the reduction of the need for water and space heating, in addition to promoting a circular economy (reducing, reusing, and recycling) (Andreou et al., 2022). Transforming waste matrices of apple, pear, and sugar beet crops in products with functional applications for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases represents a virtuous example of circular economy practices (Caliceti et al., 2022).

Monitoring and managing extreme weather events can prevent deaths caused by climate changes. The United Nations recommends expanding existing Early Warning Systems for extreme weather globally as a key climate adaptation strategy. To support this goal, a study evaluated the effectiveness of short-term weather forecasts and showed that forecast accuracy varies by region. Tropical areas show poor forecast reliability, indicating a need for improved predictability, while extra-tropical regions have relatively reliable forecasts, highlighting the necessity of local interventions (Coughlan De Perez et al., 2022). Since 2004, Italy has implemented the Heat Health Warning Systems (HHWWS) that predicts extreme heat and its health impacts. This system supports risk-based prevention measures for vulnerable groups and raise public awareness. Italy’s HHWWS covers 27 major cities and uses city-specific models based on the relationship between temperature and mortality, issuing three-day graded warnings during summer (Michelozzi et al., 2010). Addressing flood-related challenges is another important strategy for adapting to climate changes. A study focused on pre-existing adaptation measures in the Central Veneto Area, a region where recent extreme climate events, especially floods and rising temperatures, are severely challenging the area’s resilience. The research identified adaptation measures, many of which were not explicitly labeled as such, underscoring the pivotal role of proactive local planning in fostering climate resilience (Litt et al., 2022). Yu et al. have investigated the flood risk in Ulsan, South Korea, by focusing on how different types of buildings—like homes, schools, and car-related facilities—are affected. It uses a system called PPS25 (Planning Policy Statement 25), which groups buildings by how vulnerable they are to floods. The results show that while some districts are fairly safe, others have many buildings in high-risk areas. The risk depends on things like the land’s shape, how the city has developed, and what the buildings are used for. This type of research can help city planners make smarter decisions to protect people and buildings from future floods (Yu et al., 2021).

Monitoring and early intervention are crucial for protecting health from other climate-related threats. Climate change has significantly affected pollen seasons, shifting them earlier and increasing their intensity. Automatic pollen monitoring systems (Plaza et al., 2022) could prevent the rise in allergic reactions associated with these shifts (D’Amato et al., 2020). Early intervention could also be crucial to protect health from vector-borne diseases. A study in Singapore demonstrated the value of incorporating meteorological data into disease prediction models. By analyzing a decade of dengue and weather data, researchers found that temperatures and rainfall-based models improved the accuracy of outbreak predictions, supporting their use in targeted public health intervention (Hii et al., 2012).

Biosensors can greatly help monitoring processes. Biosensors have been developed to detect Cryptosporidium in drinking water, a pathogen responsible for gastrointestinal infections, which is difficult to monitor due to its low concentrations (Siwak et al., 2023). Similarly, monitoring sea surface temperature, using readily available remote sensing data, could serve as an early warning signal for Vibrio parahaemolyticus (Vp) and to guide the implementation and cessation of preventive or control measures (Konrad et al., 2017). Emerging technologies, such as CRISPR-Cas-based biosensors, offer a promising tool for fast and accurate sensor system for the detection of these diseases (Zakiyyah et al., 2022). Beyond infectious disease control, biosensors could play other crucial role in human health. For example, heatstroke activates specific inflammatory pathways, including ROS-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation and release of cytokines like IL-1β and IL-18 (Du et al., 2024). Recent advances in inflammasome monitoring include caspase-1 biosensors that detect luciferase cleavage, enabling real-time tracking of inflammation dynamics in live animals. This method, which tracks the protease that activates IL-1β/IL-18, could be adapted for wearable heatstroke monitoring systems (Talley et al., 2019). Next-generation biosensors could contribute to multi-parameter systems that monitor both vital signs and biochemical markers of heat stress. These build upon existing solutions like the Heat Stroke Alert System, which uses wearable sensors to track core temperature and heart rate (Marambe et al., 2018) and skin-adhesive nano-sensor for real-time heatstroke detection (Mani et al., 2020). Biosensors have now extended their capabilities to monitor sweating patterns and thirst, which are critical for heatstroke prevention. For instance, a validated wearable system combines a capacitive humidity sensor (tracking real-time perspiration rates) with smartphone-based thirst alerts, utilizing vasopressin biomarker changes to indicate risk periods (Momose et al., 2023).

Lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and shifting to a diet rich in plant-based foods while reducing meat intake, can serve as an effective strategy for both mitigate impact on climate and promote adaptation to climate change, by reducing its negative effects on human health. Research demonstrates that plant-based diets are associated with reduced inflammation and a lower risk of cardiometabolic diseases, which are increasingly exacerbated by the effects of climate change (Koelman et al., 2022). Of relevance, fruits and vegetables fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, enhances their beneficial properties as regulators of the immune, digestive, and cardiovascular system (Marracino et al., 2022). A diet that puts an emphasis on fish foods, may provide health benefits. Fish is a good source of protein and often rich in healthy in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MU)FAs with a significant contribution to the beneficial health effect of marine organisms’ intake given by the presence of the long-chain semi-essential omega-3 FAs, which are indispensable for many metabolic processes, protecting the circulatory system (Chiefa et al., 2024; Ferrara et al., 2024). Similarly, regular physical activity, which has been shown to significantly benefit cardiovascular health by modifying blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, and lipid profiles (Nystoriak and Bhatnagar, 2018) could build resilience against the health risks posed by rising temperatures (Deshayes and Périard, 2023).

Climate change is associated with increased cancer risk and it has been calculated 534,000 climate related deaths worldwide, including deaths from cancer, by 2050, as a result of changes in food supply due to climate changes (Hiatt and Beyeler, 2020; Springmann et al., 2016). In this context, nutritional chemoprevention could be a particularly promising approach especially for cancers that are associated with diet, such as colorectal, stomach, esophageal, liver, endometrial, breast, and prostate. Dietary phytochemicals have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. For example, it has been shown that stilbene polyphenols, mostly accumulated in grapes and blueberries, prevent further progression of precancerous prostate lesions into full blown disease and can beneficially interfere with advanced disease and metastasis (Campanelli et al., 2023; Hemani et al., 2022; Li et al., 2013; Parupathi et al., 2022).

In reviewing the effectiveness of climate change measures on human health, a complex picture emerges. Studies by Boeckmann and Rohn (2014) and Bouzid et al. (2013) highlight the challenges in assessing the effectiveness of public health interventions and planned adaptation measures to protect against climate-related health risks, noting a general lack of rigorous study designs and inconclusive evidence. While some interventions show promise, a weak evidence base and methodological shortcomings, such as difficulties in attributing health outcomes to specific measures, hinder comprehensive evaluation. Similarly, Johar et al. (2025) found mixed evidence for the effectiveness of community-based heat adaptation interventions, despite some improvements in heat literacy. The research also reveals a narrow focus in existing studies. Dinh et al. (2024) and Luyten et al. (2023) found that research on the health impacts of climate change adaptation and mitigation often focuses on a limited range of health outcomes, primarily near-term benefits from reduced air pollution, while neglecting mental health, communicable diseases, and long-term climate-related health harms. On the other hand, several studies, including those by Markandya et al. (2018) and Shrestha et al. (2024), demonstrate the significant health co-benefits of climate change mitigation strategies. Markandya et al. (2018) found that the health co-benefits from reduced air pollution could substantially outweigh the costs of achieving Paris Agreement targets, particularly in countries like China and India. Shrestha et al. (2024) further supported this, showing that strategies like increasing renewable energy, active transport, and plant-based diets have a positive co-benefit of reducing cardiovascular disease. These findings underscore the importance of taking action on climate change not only for future climate benefits but also for immediate and tangible health gains.