Vulnerabilities and Impacts: Climate Change and Public Health in Bangladesh

Abstract

The escalating impacts of climate change are increasingly affecting human health, particularly in vulnerable groups. Rising temperatures have intensified heat stress, resulting in more cases of heat-related illnesses, especially among the elderly and individuals with chronic conditions. Simultaneously, climate change is extending the geographic spread of vector-borne diseases (VBDs) such as malaria and dengue while increasing the prevalence of waterborne illnesses due to contaminated supplies-placing additional pressure on healthcare infrastructure. Mental health issues are also growing due to climate-related anxiety, displacement, and trauma from extreme weather events. Additionally, worsening air quality, driven by industrial emissions and wildfires, contributes to respiratory and cardiovascular problems, disproportionately impacting urban populations. Forced migration due to climate-induced disasters further deepens health vulnerabilities. Together, these interconnected effects are amplifying the strain on public health systems, underscoring the urgent need for integrated adaptation strategies to address the health risks posed by a changing climate. Addressing these challenges requires coordinated policy action, cross-sector collaboration, and increased investment in climate-resilient healthcare systems.