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Review
. 2020 Mar;26(2):119-127.
doi: 10.1097/MCP.0000000000000656.

Climate change and respiratory diseases: a 2020 perspective

Manish Joshi  1   2 , Harmeen Goraya  1 , Anita Joshi, Thaddeus Bartter  1   2
Affiliations
Review

Climate change and respiratory diseases: a 2020 perspective

Manish Joshi et al. Curr Opin Pulm Med. 2020 Mar.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To present an overview of the impact of climate change upon human respiratory health.

Recent findings: Climate change involves two major types of change. First, there is overall progressive warming. Second, there is increased variability/unpredictability in weather patterns. Both types of change impact negatively upon human respiratory health. Worsening air quality and increased allergens can worsen existing disease. Climate-related changes in allergens and in vectors for infection can cause new disease. Redundant sophisticated studies have projected marked increases in respiratory morbidity and mortality throughout the world as a direct result of climate change. This article summarizes some of those studies.

Summary: The clarity of our vision with respect to the dramatic impact of climate change upon human respiratory health approaches 20/20. The data represent a mandate for change. Change needs to include international, national, and individual efforts.

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