Training on Climate Change & Human Health

Course Overview

Climate modification is increasingly recognized as a significant risk to global public health. Rising temperatures, extreme heat waves, and floods directly impact our environment and health. These changes influence agricultural production, food availability, clean water access, sanitation, and the spread of diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that climate change may currently be causing over 150,000 deaths annually, with future risks expected to rise substantially. Increasing awareness of the connections between climate and health is crucial for implementing effective actions against climate-related health threats.

This 5-day course empowers participants to understand the interconnections between climate change and health. By exploring tools and methods, they will learn to manage the impacts on health effectively. Case studies from both developed and developing countries provide a robust learning foundation.

Who Should Attend?

• Development professionals from NGOs, agencies, donor organizations, and government departments.
• Organizations addressing climate change and seeking to enhance their capabilities in this area.

Program Objectives:

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Comprehend the scientific basis of climate change and its dynamics.
• Raise awareness about the health impacts of climate change and prompt public health actions.
• Understand the risks and adverse effects on health.
• Advocate and facilitate behavioral changes and societal support to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
• Lead in supporting comprehensive strategies for mitigation and adaptation to enhance health and reduce vulnerability.

Key Topics Covered:

• Introduction to Climate and Health: Explore climate change basics and its health impacts.
• Impact and Risk Assessment: Learn methods and tools for evaluating climate risks.
• Extreme Weather and Health: Understand the health implications of extreme weather events.
• Climate-Sensitive Diseases: Examine diseases linked to climate conditions.
• Public Health Responses to Climate Risks: Discuss policy responses and health sector roles in climate negotiations.

Course Outline: Human Health and Climate Change

This comprehensive course is structured into modules to provide a clear and insightful journey through the intricate relationship between climate change and human health. Each module is designed to build upon the last, giving you the tools and understanding needed to make impactful changes. 📚

Module 1: Introduction to Climate and Health

• Overview of Climate Change: Understand the basics and dynamics of climate change.
• Health Impacts: Explore the direct and indirect impacts on human health.
• Case Studies: Analyze examples from both developed and developing countries.

Module 2: Impact and Risk Assessment

• Evaluation Techniques: Learn various tools and methods for assessing climate risks.
• Adaptation Strategies: Develop plans to adapt to and manage these risks.
• Modeling Impacts: Use models to predict the health outcomes of climate change.

Module 3: Extreme Weather and Health

• Temperature Effects: Examine the health impacts of rising temperatures.
• Weather Extremes: Understand the health risks from events like heavy rainfall, flooding, and droughts.
• Preparedness Plans: Create response strategies for extreme weather events.

Module 4: Climate-Sensitive Diseases

• Linkages to Climate: Identify diseases that are influenced by climate changes.
• Vulnerability Factors: Discuss what makes populations more susceptible to these diseases.
• Food Security: Understand the connections between climate change, nutrition, and health.

Module 5: Public Health Responses to Climate Risks

• Policy Development: Learn how to create and advocate for effective climate policies.
• Early Warning Systems: Implement systems to preemptively address climate risks.
• Global Health Roles: Explore the health sector’s role in international climate negotiations.

Actionable Steps:

• Participate in discussions: Join forums and communities focused on climate health.
• Apply course insights: Use the knowledge gained to influence local policies.
• Stay proactive: Regularly review and update adaptation plans.