Climate Change and Health

The UN should prioritize efforts to mitigate the health impacts of drought and hydrological shocks as a consequence of a changing climate.

These health effects include:

• developmental issues such as stunting, malnutrition, starvation, etc.
• vector borne diseases resulting from poor sanitation
• migration resulting from food shortages
• possible unrest and conflict due to migration/resources and the injurious effect that is would have

In all circumstances, proper planning, which, includes climatic and hydro-graphic modeling, must be use to predict the health impacts of climate changes and drought on vulnerable population and identify expanding ranges of vulnerability. This would allow for sustainable planning and development of critical infrastructure, adaptation of agricultural practices, improved design of water storage and irrigation systems, increased awareness among the population of water security issues, development of early warning systems, etc.

Geopolitical issues must also be addressed, including the sustainable use and sharing of resources, particularly water from river catchment areas in drought effected areas.

In all cases, the statistical data and historical record shows the failures of the past in identifying and addressing this matters in a consistent and coherent manner; changes are needed to prevent the history repeating itself.