Climate Change and Health in Durham Region

I’m excited to share that Durham Region Health Department has released the first of seven reports focusing on the health impacts of climate change in the region. The special series entitled, Climate Change and Health in Durham Region, will allow residents to learn, prepare for and act against hazards associated with climate change.

The first report—Understanding the Local Health Impacts of Climate Change—explores current and future health impacts of climate hazards, key factors for assessing climate vulnerability and why some people face greater health risks compared to others from the impacts of climate change.

We know that climate change isn’t just a global issue—it also affects the safety, health, and quality of life of people in Durham Region, as well as the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and other Indigenous Peoples with whom we share these lands.

We see evidence of this in the increased number of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and windstorms, that are creating health risks for vulnerable members in our communities. Climate change also impacts the air, food, water, homes, land, communities, and health care systems that we all depend on to survive.

In the coming months, six additional reports will be released focused on: extreme heat; ultra-violet radiation; vector-borne diseases; air quality; extreme weather; and food and water impacts.

Durham Region Health Department continues to monitor emerging trends and priority populations, recognizing that the actions taken today will help protect the health and well-being of our communities, now and in the future.

To access the first report, please visit www.durham.ca/ClimateAndHealth.