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Azoulay C. [Climate and environmental crisis impacts on women's health: What specificities? What can be done?]. GYNECOLOGIE, OBSTETRIQUE, FERTILITE & SENOLOGIE 2024; 52:524-532. [PMID: 38492742 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2024.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pollution is one of the world's largest risk factors for disease and premature death. In Europe, it is responsible for approximately 20% of mortality. Chemicals exposure can occur by inhalation, ingestion or skin contact and begins in utero. Pollutants can be divided into three categories: endocrine disruptors (pesticides, PFAS, plastics, dioxins, etc.), heavy metals (cadmium, mercury and lead…) and nanomaterials. Climate change and air pollution are other main health threats. METHODS Literature review using PubMed and ResearchGate databases and institutional websites. RESULTS Endocrine disruptors are identified as significant risk factors for the reproductive health with negative documented impacts following prenatal or adult exposure. Climate change and air pollution can cause gender-based health disparities. Numerous scientific arguments show that chemical pollution and climate change disproportionately impact women, both on a social and biological level. Populations in precarious situations among which women are over-represented suffer the most severe social consequences including in France. There are several gender-specific domestic or occupational exposures to pollutants, most often to the disadvantage of women compared to men. Finally, although very few gendered data exist in environmental health, there are sexual-based physiological vulnerabilities concerning the metabolism of pollutants and the capacity to adapt to heat. CONCLUSION Facing this threat of gender inequity in sexual and reproductive health and rights' width, women's health professionals have a major role to play in initiating new ways to assess and reduce the environmental health burden in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Azoulay
- Collectif Femmes de Santé, chez Hkind (Les arches citoyennes), 3, avenue Victoria, 75004 Paris, France.
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Bucciarelli V, Moscucci F, Cocchi C, Nodari S, Sciomer S, Gallina S, Mattioli AV. Climate change versus Mediterranean diet: A hazardous struggle for the women's heart. AMERICAN HEART JOURNAL PLUS : CARDIOLOGY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2024; 45:100431. [PMID: 39175598 PMCID: PMC11340622 DOI: 10.1016/j.ahjo.2024.100431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2024] [Revised: 07/20/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Climate change impacts food systems, causing nutritional deficiencies and increasing cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Regulatory frameworks like the European Farm-to-Fork Strategy aim to mitigate these effects, but current EU food safety regulations inadequately address health risks from poor diet quality and contaminants. Climate change adversely affects food quality, such as nutrient depletion in crops due to higher CO2 levels, leading to diets that promote chronic diseases, including CVD. Women, because of their roles in food production and their unique physiological responses to nutrients, face distinct vulnerabilities. This review explores the interplay between climate change, diet, and cardiovascular health in women. The review highlights that sustainable diets, particularly the Mediterranean diet, offer health benefits and lower environmental impacts but are threatened by climate change-induced disruptions. Women's adherence to the Mediterranean diet is linked to significant reductions in CVD risk, though sex-specific responses need further research. Resilient agricultural practices, efficient water management, and climate-smart farming are essential to mitigate climate change's negative impacts on food security. Socio-cultural factors influencing women's dietary habits, such as traditional roles and societal pressures, further complicate the picture. Effective interventions must be tailored to women, emphasizing education, community support, policy changes, and media campaigns promoting healthy eating. Collaborative approaches involving policymakers, health professionals, and the agricultural sector are crucial for developing solutions that protect public health and promote sustainability. Addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by climate change to food quality and cardiovascular health in women underscores the need for integrated strategies that ensure food security, enhance diet quality, and mitigate environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bucciarelli
- Cardiovascular Sciences Department, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Federica Moscucci
- Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Policlinico Umberto I, Viale del Policlinico n. 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Savina Nodari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties, Radiological Sciences and Public Health, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Susanna Sciomer
- Dipartimento di Scienze Cliniche, Internistiche, Anestesiologiche e Cardiovascolari, ‘Sapienza’ Rome University, Viale dell'Università, 37, 00185 Rome, Italy
| | - Sabina Gallina
- Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, ‘G. d'Annunzio’ University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - Anna Vittoria Mattioli
- Department of Quality of Life Sciences, University of Bologna-Alma Mater Studiorum, 40126 Bologna, Italy
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Zavala MD, Cejas C, Rubinstein A, Lopez A. Gender Inequities in the Impact of Climate Change on Health: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 21:1093. [PMID: 39200702 PMCID: PMC11353975 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph21081093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/02/2024]
Abstract
In the 21st century, climate change has emerged as a critical global public health challenge. Women experience the most severe impacts of climate change, intensifying pre-existing gender inequalities. This scoping review aims to explore the intersection of climate change, health, and gender, considering the social determinants of health. The methods for this review follow the Arksey and O'Malley framework for a scoping review and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. The review, covering January 2019 to February 2024, included PubMed, LILACS, and SciELO databases. We identified 71 studies with 19 meeting the inclusion criteria. The results revealed the differential effects of climate change on health according to gender in areas such as mental health, reproductive health, gender-based violence, occupational health, and health issues associated with heat and air pollution. Our findings also elucidated how socio-economic and gender inequities intersect, exacerbating the risk of experiencing these effects. In conclusion, the study highlights a clear need for gender-sensitive climate policies and interventions to address these disparities and protect vulnerable populations from the health impacts of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melina Denise Zavala
- Center for Implementation and Innovation in Health Policies, Institute for Clinical Effectiveness and Health Policy, Buenos Aires C1414CPV, Argentina; (C.C.); (A.R.); (A.L.)
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Meherali S, Nisa S, Aynalem YA, Kennedy M, Salami B, Adjorlolo S, Ali P, Silva KL, Aziato L, Richter S, Lassi ZS. Impact of climate change on maternal health outcomes: An evidence gap map review. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2024; 4:e0003540. [PMID: 39159145 PMCID: PMC11332935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0003540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/21/2024]
Abstract
Climate change poses unique challenges to maternal well-being and increases complications during pregnancy and childbirth globally. This evidence gap map (EGM) aims to identify gaps in existing knowledge and areas where further research related to climate change and its impact on maternal health is required. The following databases were searched individually from inception to present: Medline, EMBASE, and Global Health via OVID; Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) via EBSCOhost; Scopus; and organizational websites. In this EGM, we integrated 133 studies published in English, including qualitative, quantitative, reviews and grey literature that examined the impact of climate change on maternal health (women aged 15-45). We used Covidence to screen studies and Evidence for Policy and Practice Information (Eppi reviewer)/Eppi Mapper software to generate the EGM. Data extraction and qualitative appraisal of the studies was done using critical appraisal tools. The study protocol was registered in International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols (INPLASY) # INPLASY202370085. Out of 133 included studies, forty seven studies were of high quality, seventy nine moderate equality and seven low quality. This EGM found notable gaps in the literature regarding the distribution of research across regions. We found significant research in North America (51) and Asia (40 studies). However, Africa and the Caribbean had fewer studies, highlighting potential disparities in research attention and resources. Moreover, while the impact of extreme heat emerged as a prominent factor impacting maternal well-being, there is a need for further investigation into other climate-related factors such as drought. Additionally, while preterm stillbirth and maternal mortality have gained attention, there is an overlook of malnutrition and food insecurity indicators that require attention in future research. The EGM identifies existing research gaps in climate change and maternal health. It emphasizes the need for global collaboration and targeted interventions to address disparities and inform climate-responsive policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salima Meherali
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Saba Nisa
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Yared Asmare Aynalem
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Megan Kennedy
- John W. Scott Health Sciences Librarian, Walter C. Mackenzie Health Sciences Centre, University of Alberta Library, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bukola Salami
- Department of Community Health Sciences, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Samuel Adjorlolo
- Department of Mental Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Parveen Ali
- School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sheffield and Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Kênia Lara Silva
- Department de Enfermagem Aplicada, Escola de Enfermagem, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
| | - Lydia Aziato
- Department of Mental Health, School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Solina Richter
- College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
| | - Zohra S. Lassi
- School of Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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Sidun NM, Gibbons JL. Women, girls, and climate change: Human rights, vulnerabilities, and opportunities. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 2024; 59:257-266. [PMID: 37696777 DOI: 10.1002/ijop.12942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/13/2023]
Abstract
Our world faces potentially catastrophic climate change that can damage human health in multiple ways. The impact of climate change is uneven, disproportionately affecting the lives and livelihoods of women and girls. This conceptual article compiles evidence for a model that argues that climate change has more detrimental consequences for women than men because of women's precarity (unequal power) and corporal (physical) vulnerability. Climate change challenges the human rights of women and girls, triggering displacement, interrupted education, food and water scarcity, economic instability, mental and physical health challenges, reproductive injustice, gender-based violence, exploitation and human trafficking. Women are effective and essential change agents; their empowerment can directly contravene or mitigate climate change and also break the links between climate change and its negative consequences for women and girls. Gender-sensitive responses to the effects of climate change are imperative. Women's empowerment will further human rights and achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Judith L Gibbons
- Department of Psychology, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO, USA
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Rony MKK, Alamgir HM. High temperatures on mental health: Recognizing the association and the need for proactive strategies-A perspective. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1729. [PMID: 38059052 PMCID: PMC10696165 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims The influence of temperature on various aspects of daily life is often underestimated, and its effects on mental health are not widely recognized. Understanding and addressing the relationship between temperature and mental well-being is crucial in the context of climate change and rising global temperatures. This perspective aimed to investigate the effects of high temperatures on mental health and identify proactive strategies to mitigate these effects. Methods This perspective adopted a twofold approach, including a comprehensive literature review and socioecological framework. The literature review involved extensive searches across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus to identify relevant, peer-reviewed articles, and reports from diverse disciplines. Results The perspective emphasized the significance of recognizing heat stress and its consequences on mental well-being. Chronic heat stress can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and cognitive impairment. Vulnerable populations include, the very young, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions. Socioeconomic factors can further exacerbate vulnerability, highlighting the need for tailored strategies to manage mental health challenges during high temperatures. Additionally, the article identified and discussed proactive coping strategies to minimize both the psychological and physical impacts of heat stress. Mindfulness, stress management techniques, and therapy are suggested as effective means for individuals to manage psychological distress. Conclusion Implementing preventive measures are essential steps in promoting mental wellness in high temperatures. Proactive strategies by addressing the physiological and psychological effects of heat and considering the specific needs of vulnerable populations can help individuals and communities navigate the challenges posed by rising temperatures and promote resilience and preserve their mental well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustaq Karim Khan Rony
- Department of Public HealthBangladesh Open UniversityGazipurBangladesh
- Department of Institute of Social Welfare and ResearchUniversity of DhakaDhakaBangladesh
| | - Hasnat M. Alamgir
- Department of Career & Professional Development Services (CPDS)Southeast UniversityDhakaBangladesh
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Chen Y, Zheng X, Huang X, Huang X, Zhang J. A retrospective study of air quality associated with teratogenic pathogen screening in women of reproductive age in southern China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:83615-83627. [PMID: 37347331 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28239-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023]
Abstract
Adverse pregnancy outcomes are associated with a poor ambient atmospheric environment. Infections by teratogenic pathogens such as cytomegalovirus (CMV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) are the main cause of the worse pregnant outcomes. However, environmental factors governing these infections are uncertain and epidemiological studies are limited. An epidemiological study on relationships between air pollutants and antibodies against teratogenic pathogens will be explored. In total, 5475 women of childbearing age were enrolled in the study between January 2018 and December 2019 in a hospital in Shantou, China. Antibodies against pathogens were measured by electrochemical luminescence. Everyday air quality data, concerning particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and other parameters, were acquired from a government web site, and the relationships between them were evaluated with nonparametric and multivariate linear regression analyses. Not only titers of herpes simplex virus HSV(I+II) IgGs in spring, but also titers of cytomegalovirus IgG (CMV IgG) and HSV I IgG in autumn, both had positive associations with concentrations of SO2. When PM2.5 or PM10 exposure is elevated, HSV(I+II) IgGs, TOX IgM should be paid more attention in spring or summer. Air pollution may be crucial for teratogenic pathogen infections. This study highlights air pollution could increase the risk of teratogenic pathogen infection, implying stronger measures should be taken to protect air environment and screenings of associated antibody should be strengthened in different season.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanrong Chen
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 57 Changping Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiangbin Zheng
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
- Clinical Research Center, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaofan Huang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Shantou Central Hospital, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 57 Changping Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China
| | - Juan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shantou University Medical College, 57 Changping Road, Shantou, 515041, Guangdong, China.
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