의학강좌/기후 변화와 건강 = Climate Change and Human Health

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Climate changes, particularly global warming, are attributable to human activities, mainly

fossil fuel burning which releases greenhouse gases such as CO2. The emissions of CO2

continue to rise, and climate models project 1.1°C to 6.4°C rise of average surface temperature

over the 21st century. Health effects from global warming range from increased mortality by

extreme weather, floods, and storms to increase of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and

diarrhea. Korea is not immune to health impacts from global warming. Data on daily temperature

of Seoul in 1994 showed a clear association with daily mortality. Rise of sea and surface temperatures

also indicates possibility of increase in infectious diseases in Korea. Concentrations of

ambient pollutants, particularly ozone, were shown to be associated with surface temperature.

Therefore, we are already in the influence of climate change. Adaptation strategy to climate

changes is basically a matter of public health. Well-prepared programs for responding to climate

changes will minimize health risks. The most effective responses are strengthening of the key

functions of environmental management, surveillance, and response to natural disasters and

changes of disease patterns associated with global warming. We need to intensify our efforts in

preventive public health, and ensure sustainable development and protection of ecosystem for

human health.

참고문헌 (Reference)

1 JY Jang, 2007

2 "The world health report 2004: changing history" WHO 2004

3 "The Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change" 2007

4 JA Patz, "Impact of regional climate change on human health" 438 : 310-317, 2005

5 Diarmid Campbell-Lendrum, "Global climate change: implications for international public health policy"