A new report from global health experts warns that climate change is pushing temperatures to dangerous levels, leading to increased deaths and the spread of infectious diseases. The Lancet Countdown report, released ahead of the COP29 climate summit, highlights that every country faces unprecedented health threats due to climate change.
The experts urge governments to redirect the trillions spent on fossil fuels towards protecting health and livelihoods. “Resources should not perpetuate fossil fuel use but rather promote access to clean, renewable energy,” said Dr. Marina Romanello, the report’s executive director.
The study, conducted by 122 experts, reveals record levels of heat-related deaths, food insecurity, and infectious diseases driven by climate change. In 2023, people faced an average of 50 additional days of extreme temperatures. Nearly half of the global land area is experiencing extreme droughts, exacerbating food insecurity for 151 million people in 124 countries.
Romanello emphasized that climate change is a critical health issue affecting all demographics, particularly vulnerable populations. “The health implications are enormous,” she stated, referencing the acute hunger crisis in regions like Somalia due to drought.