Climate change is no longer a distant environmental issue; it is a growing public health problem affecting our communities. As temperatures rise, extreme weather events continue to occur and air quality worsens. Human health is facing increased strains, from physical illness to mental well-being.
Heat waves are among the most direct impacts of climate change. Heat-related deaths in people over the age of 65 have seen an increase of more than 85% since the 1990s, according to the World Health Organization. Continued exposure to extreme heat significantly increases the risk of dehydration, heatstroke and heat exhaustion. In the United States alone, extreme heat causes more deaths each year than hurricanes, wildfires and floods combined, according to data from the CDC.
Younger children, older adults, outdoor workers and those with chronic illnesses are particularly susceptible. Higher temperatures place an increased stress on the heart and lungs, leading to or worsening cardiovascular and respiratory problems. Research from the National Library of Medicine shows that for every 1°C increase in temperature, mortality due to cardiovascular diseases rises by 1-2%. As a result, global warming is already a significant contributor to increased hospitalization and mortality rates.
While not as visible, but equally concerning are the impacts on brain health. Recent research shows that air pollution combined with extreme heat can significantly affect cognitive function, memory and attention in all stages of life. During the prenatal period, exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) can lead to an increased risk of autism and stillbirths, while also contributing to long-term effects such as asthma and obesity. When PM2.5 crosses the blood-brain barrier, it can trigger inflammation and oxidative stress, with long-term exposure leading to strokes, anxiety, depression and dementia. Some studies suggest that one in five dementia cases are a result of air pollution; extreme heat only compounds these health risks. Given that the brain governs nearly every function of our body, cognitive health has become an increasingly large public health concern in a warming world.
One of the most significant contributors to global warming is AI, requiring massive energy consumption and substantial water usage, leading to increased carbon emissions and disproportionately affecting communities near data centers. However, advances in artificial intelligence are helping researchers model impacts of climate change, optimize energy systems and design health responses for vulnerable populations. Recent studies have developed AI models to analyze massive environmental, climate and health datasets to predict extreme weather events, identify susceptible communities and support early interventions. In healthcare research, scientists are also using AI to help link environmental exposure to changes in brain structure, cognitive function and disease progression. These tools are being used to optimize energy systems, reduce carbon emissions and guide policymakers; all to save lives.
