Climate change is one of the most significant threats facing our planet. The impact of climate change is not only limited to environmental and economic damages, but it also has a significant impact on human health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), climate change is responsible for the deaths of approximately 150,000 people each year. This number is expected to increase in the coming years if preventive measures are not taken.

Some of the health problems caused by climate change include:.

Impact on Respiratory System

Climate change is associated with an increase in air pollution and respiratory problems. As temperatures rise, it creates a favorable environment for the growth and spread of pollution-causing agents like pollen, dust, mold, and smog.

These particles can cause respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Malaria and Other Infections

Climate change also increases the incidence of infectious diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease. Climate change affects the distribution and abundance of insect vectors that carry diseases.

As temperatures rise, these vectors can survive in areas that were previously too cold for them to thrive.

Impact on Mental Health

Climate change also impacts the mental and emotional well-being of people. It leads to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Natural disasters like floods and hurricanes can cause significant psychological trauma, and people may develop fear of such events.

Call for Health Insurance Coverage

The impact of climate change on human health makes it necessary for health insurance providers to make changes to their policies. Insurance providers need to come up with ways to cover the costs of treatment for climate change-related health problems.

People living in areas that are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change may require additional health insurance coverage.

Health insurance providers need to cover the following when it comes to climate change-related illnesses:.

Coverage for Respiratory Ailments

Health insurance providers need to include respiratory ailments like asthma and COPD in their coverage plans. People living in areas with high air pollution levels are more likely to develop respiratory illnesses.

These illnesses require medical intervention and may require emergency treatment if symptoms become severe.

Coverage for Infectious Diseases

Insurance providers need to cover the costs of diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of infectious diseases like malaria and dengue fever.

These diseases can be devastating to people, and adequate medical intervention can help to prevent deaths and further complications.

Coverage for Mental Health

Insurers should include the costs of mental health counseling and treatment for those who have experienced trauma because of climate change.

People who have been affected by natural disasters or lost their homes due to climate change need assistance in dealing with the psychological impact of these events.

Conclusion

Climate change is a severe threat to human health, and it is essential to take preventive measures. Health insurance providers need to be proactive in adjusting their policies to cover the costs of climate change-related illnesses.

Providing additional health insurance coverage can make a significant difference in the lives of those who are most affected by climate change.