How Climate Change Affects Human Health
Climate change poses many threats to the health and well-being humans around the world. This includes increasing the risk of extreme heat events and heavy storms, the rise in asthma attacks and changing the natural spread of diseases. Some of these health impacts are already happening here in Chautauqua County. Climate change can exacerbate existing health threats or create new public health challenges through a variety of pathways.
Who is Most at Risk?
Certain groups are more at risk than others due to both climate and non-climate factors. Those living in rural areas, populations on certain medications or those with chronic illnesses or disabilities. children, pregnant people and older adults may be more heavily impacted.
- Learn more about who is most susceptible to the changing climate.
- Find out if you qualify for home energy assistance programs designed to help eligible New Yorkers heat and cool their homes.
What Can We Do?
There are many things we can do to protect people's health from the impacts of climate change.
- Find a cooling center near you to cool off during a heat wave.
- Monitor and prepare for potential hazards.
- Help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Promote clean, efficient, renewable energy supported through NYSERDA programs.
What is being done?
- NYS Extreme Heat Action Plan - a coordinated project for State action on extreme adaptation.
- Emergency preparedness programs that work to protect New Yorkers, their property, and the State's economic well-being.
