Protocol for a systematic scoping review
The impact of climate change on human health in the Nordic countries
Note
|Published
This systematic scoping review is proposed to map existing literature on climate change and health regarding the Nordic countries, aiming to inform stakeholders and develop projections on the future impact of climate change on health. The study's objectives and aims involve identifying existing documentation, mapping literature on direct and indirect consequences, and assessing evidence for expected future consequences in this region.
Summary
Climate change, driven predominantly by human activities, poses a critical threat to global health. The consequences of climate change manifest through both direct and indirect effects. Direct effects, such as those from extreme events like heatwaves, floods, and landslides, are acute and easily identifiable. Indirect effects present complex challenges, and can affect food and water safety and security, the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), many infectious diseases (IDs), mental health, and the potential displacement of populations (1-3).
Moreover, climate change not only affects individuals but also poses challenges to countries' healthcare deliv-ery systems. The increased frequency of extreme weather events associated with climate change can directly impact healthcare facilities, infrastructure, and the healthcare workforce, hindering the ability to deliver appropriate services and indirectly threatening public health.
Initiatives, including the health program launched during the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference, emphasize the need for a low-emission and climate adapted healthcare sector. This systematic scoping review is proposed to map existing literature on climate change and health regarding the Nordic countries, aiming to inform stakeholders and develop projections on the future impact of climate change on health. The study's objectives and aims involve identifying existing documentation, mapping literature on direct and indirect consequences, and assessing evidence for expected future consequences in this region. The systematic review is crucial for conducting risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and shaping climate resilience strategies to address potential health consequences. The planned interactive research maps will offer a comprehensive overview of the research conducted on how climate change affects human health in the specified region. The full reports will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of climate change and public health.
