Protecting Health in a Changing Climate

Climate change represents the greatest health threat of the 21st century, with far-reaching implications for human health across Europe and globally. The European Society of Medicine recognizes the urgent need for coordinated action to protect public health from the escalating risks posed by our changing climate.

This position paper outlines the multifaceted health impacts of climate change, identifies vulnerable populations, and provides evidence-based recommendations for healthcare systems, policymakers, and medical professionals.

The evidence is clear: climate change is already affecting human health through increased heat-related mortality, changing patterns of infectious diseases, compromised air quality, and threats to food and water security.