Heat and extreme weather are affecting our health.
Our health is linked to the world around us, and today’s extreme weather challenges are impacting us all. In communities across the country, extreme weather is causing health threats, including worsening air quality, food insecurity and added stress and anxiety that affects our mental health.
Existing health threats are likely to intensify, and new health threats may emerge. These changes not only impact the health of our communities but also the strength of our nation. According to estimates, the direct damage costs to health are estimated to be between USD $2 billion–$4 billion per year by 2030, according to the World Health Organization. Though all of us will be impacted, not everyone is equally at risk. Communities that have experienced historical and current disinvestment and have inadequate health and economic infrastructure are the least prepared to protect people from health threats such as extreme heat, wildfires and flooding.
Supporting Communities in Finding Local Solutions for Local Challenges
There are steps communities can take to prepare for potential health challenges caused by extreme weather and disasters. Through our work with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the public health system as well as with academic, business and community leadership across the United States, we are working together to support and implement readiness strategies that protect health. Our goal is to promote community preparedness and sustainability plans that can evolve to address community specific issues.
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How You Can Help
The CDC Foundation is actively seeking partners to join with us to make an impact. Learn more: Contact Advancement at the CDC Foundation: advancement@cdcfoundation.org, 404.653.0790.
If you would like to have an immediate impact, give today to help us accelerate our nation's capacity, preparedness and resilience to extreme weather events, changing air quality and other national and local health challenges. Donate Now.