Climate action is needed for human health, a new study finds.

A recent investigation by international researchers highlights the critical link between climate change and public health, and the urgent need for action to safeguard the future. 

The study finds that investing $1 in climate change mitigation could potentially save $3 in healthcare costs.

Researcher Professor Ioana Agache, from Transilvania University of Brasov and the European Academy of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, has voiced concerns over the rapid environmental changes outpacing our immune system's ability to adapt. 

“From an evolutionary perspective, the immune system is constantly moulded to respond to the environment and maintain health; however, the recent changes have been too rapid for our immune system to adequately adapt,” Agache explained.

The report outlines the increasing prevalence of immune-mediated diseases such as asthma, allergies, cancer, and autoimmune disorders. 

It attributes these conditions to the combined effects of pollution, climate change, and decreased biodiversity, which have disrupted the balance of our immune systems.

Highlighting the economic benefits of addressing climate change, the researchers call for a dual strategy. 

This includes adapting to the existing changes through improved diets, housing, and access to nature, as well as mitigating further impacts by reducing emissions, enhancing air quality, and promoting environmental biodiversity.

“As a physician-scientist, I have seen first-hand how air pollution from wildfires affect respiratory health,” said Prof Kari Nadeau of Harvard University, senior author. 

“I have also seen the impact of lengthening pollen season and increased pollen allergenicity on allergies and asthma.”

The comprehensive approach suggested involves biomarker research, economic modelling, and data science techniques to monitor disease progression and assess the effectiveness of intervention strategies. 

The full study is accessible here.