Understand The Link Between Climate Change And Health

Hartford — Public health officials in Connecticut and all across the country are asking the public to understand the link between climate change and their personal health, and to make choices and lead lifestyles that are healthy for them, their communities, and the planet.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that changes in the Earth’s climate now lead to at least five million cases of illness and more than 150,000 deaths each year due to extreme heat, air pollution, infectious diseases, and other factors effected by climate changes.

“Climate change is a health issue,” according to Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr J. Robert Galvin. “From changes in vector-borne diseases to impacts on drinking water supply to extreme weather events, we are already seeing the effects of climate change on the health of people across the globe.”

“The good news is that there are steps we can take as individuals to protect our community from the health impacts of climate change by making the choice to lead a lifestyle that’s healthier for ourselves, our community, and the planet,” stated Dr Galvin.

According to the American Public Health Association, there are five important ways Americans can take action in their lives today:

*Be Prepared. Prepare for climate change-related emergencies by creating Emergency Preparedness Kits, and becoming informed about the health impacts of climate change and regional climate change issues facing the state.

*Travel Differently. Leave the car at home — use public transportation, carpool, or telecommute. Walk or bike if you can — you will save money and get exercise.

*Eat Differently. Eat less meat and buy local produce from community farmers markets.

*Green Your Work. Use recycled paper, print less, use energy-saving computer settings, and green your office.

*Green Your Home. Seal and insulate your home, reduce, reuse, recycle, and use water efficiently.

For more information, visit the APHA website at www.apha.org. For more information on Connecticut climate change information, see www.ctclimatechange.com