1
|
Bhawra J, Elsahli N, Patel J. Applying Digital Technology to Understand Human Experiences of Climate Change Impacts on Food Security and Mental Health: Scoping Review. JMIR Public Health Surveill 2024; 10:e54064. [PMID: 39042453 PMCID: PMC11303902 DOI: 10.2196/54064] [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: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The global impact of climate change ranges from intense heatwaves to extreme weather events that endanger entire ecosystems and people's way of life. Adverse climate change events place undue stress on food and health systems, with consequences for human food security and mental health status. Ubiquitous digital devices, such as smartphones, have the potential to manage existing and emerging climate-related crises, given their ability to enable rapid response, instant communication, and knowledge sharing. OBJECTIVE This scoping review aimed to identify digital apps being used to capture or address climate change impacts on food security and mental health to inform the development of a digital citizen science initiative. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using 3 peer-reviewed databases (PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science) and manual gray literature searches of relevant organizational (ie, governmental and nonprofit) websites to identify articles and reports published between January 2012 and July 2023. Three separate searches were conducted in each database to identify digital apps focused on climate change and (1) food security, (2) mental health, and (3) food security and mental health. Two reviewers conducted initial screening, with a third reviewer resolving any discrepancies. Articles focused on climate change impacts on wildlife or agriculture (ie, not human food security) were excluded. Full-text screening was conducted for shortlisted articles, and a final data abstraction table was generated, summarizing key app features, contextual factors, and participant involvement. RESULTS From the 656 records screened, 14 digital apps met the inclusion criteria. The food security apps (n=7, 50%) aimed to capture traditional knowledge to preserve food systems, conduct food security assessments, and aid users in decreasing food insecurity risk. The mental health apps (n=7, 50%) assessed climate change-related stress and provided users with coping strategies following adverse weather events. No digital apps examined the intersection of climate change, food security, and mental health. Key app features included user-to-user communication (n=5, 36%), knowledge databases (n=5, 36%), data collection and analysis (n=3, 21%), gamification (n=1, 7%), and educational resources (n=2, 14%) to address climate change impacts on food security or mental health. In total, 3 approaches to participant involvement were used across studies, including contributory (n=1, 7%), collaborative (n=1, 7%), and cocreative (n=1, 7%) approaches, to ensure the relevance and use of digital apps. CONCLUSIONS Most digital apps identified provided a service to citizens to either prevent adverse climate change-related health impacts or manage these effects following an acute event or a natural disaster. The capacity of ubiquitous digital tools to enable near real-time communication, the involvement of various stakeholder groups, and their ability to share relevant educational resources in a timely manner are important for developing tailored climate change adaptation and mitigation strategies across jurisdictions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Bhawra
- CHANGE Research Lab, School of Occupational and Public Health, Faculty of Community Services, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nadine Elsahli
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jamin Patel
- School of Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Golden CD, Hartmann AC, Gibbons E, Todinanahary G, Troell MF, Ampalaza G, Behivoke F, David JM, Durand JD, Falinirina AM, Frånberg C, Declèrque F, Hook K, Kelahan H, Kirby M, Koenen K, Lamy T, Lavitra T, Moridy F, Léopold M, Little MJ, Mahefa JC, Mbony J, Nicholas K, Nomenisoa ALD, Ponton D, Rabarijaona RR, Rabearison M, Rabemanantsoa SA, Ralijaona M, Ranaivomanana HS, Randriamady HJ, Randrianandrasana J, Randriatsara HO, Randriatsara RM, Rasoanirina M, Ratsizafy MR, Razafiely KF, Razafindrasoa N, Romario, Solofoarimanana MY, Stroud RE, Tsiresimiary M, Volanandiana AJ, Volasoa NV, Vowell B, Zamborain-Mason J. HIARA study protocol: impacts of artificial coral reef development on fisheries, human livelihoods and health in southwestern Madagascar. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1366110. [PMID: 39076417 PMCID: PMC11284108 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1366110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
The Health Impacts of Artificial Reef Advancement (HIARA; in the Malagasy language, "together") study cohort was set up in December 2022 to assess the economic and nutritional importance of seafood for the coastal Malagasy population living along the Bay of Ranobe in southwestern Madagascar. Over the course of the research, which will continue until at least 2026, the primary question we seek to answer is whether the creation of artificial coral reefs can rehabilitate fish biomass, increase fish catch, and positively influence fisher livelihoods, community nutrition, and mental health. Through prospective, longitudinal monitoring of the ecological and social systems of Bay of Ranobe, we aim to understand the influence of seasonal and long-term shifts in marine ecological resources and their benefits to human livelihoods and health. Fourteen communities (12 coastal and two inland) were enrolled into the study including 450 households across both the coastal (n = 360 households) and inland (n = 90 households) ecosystems. In the ecological component, we quantify the extent and health of coral reef ecosystems and collect data on the diversity and abundance of fisheries resources. In the social component, we collect data on the diets, resource acquisition strategies, fisheries and agricultural practices, and other social, demographic and economic indicators, repeated every 3 months. At these visits, clinical measures are collected including anthropometric measures, blood pressure, and mental health diagnostic screening. By analyzing changes in fish catch and consumption arising from varying distances to artificial reef construction and associated impacts on fish biomass, our cohort study could provide valuable insights into the public health impacts of artificial coral reef construction on local populations. Specifically, we aim to assess the impact of changes in fish catch (caused by artificial reefs) on various health outcomes, such as stunting, underweight, wasting, nutrient intake, hypertension, anxiety, and depression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D. Golden
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
- Madagascar Health and Environmental Research (MAHERY), Maroantsetra, Madagascar
| | - Aaron C. Hartmann
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | | | - Gildas Todinanahary
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Max F. Troell
- Beijer Institute of Ecological Economics, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gaelle Ampalaza
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Faustinato Behivoke
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Jean Marie David
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Jean-Dominique Durand
- UMR9190 Centre Pour la Biodiversité Marine, l’exploitation et la Conservation (MARBEC), Sète, France
| | | | - Christopher Frånberg
- Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Frédéric Declèrque
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Kimberly Hook
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Heather Kelahan
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Megumi Kirby
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Karestan Koenen
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Thomas Lamy
- UMR9190 Centre Pour la Biodiversité Marine, l’exploitation et la Conservation (MARBEC), Sète, France
| | - Thierry Lavitra
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Franciana Moridy
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | | | - Mark J. Little
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Jean C. Mahefa
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Jovial Mbony
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Khristopher Nicholas
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Aina Le Don Nomenisoa
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | | | - Roddy R. Rabarijaona
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
- National School of Computer Science, University of Fianarantsoa, Fianarantsoa, Madagascar
| | - Mihary Rabearison
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | | | - Mbolahasina Ralijaona
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | | | - Hervet J. Randriamady
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Hanitra O. Randriatsara
- Service de la Santé Mentale, Direction de Lutte contre les Maladies Non Transmissibles, Ministère de la Santé Publique, Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Roddy M. Randriatsara
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Madeleine Rasoanirina
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Michel R. Ratsizafy
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Kinasa F. Razafiely
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | - Nivohanitra Razafindrasoa
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Soins et de Santé PubliqueAnalakely (CHUSSPA), Antananarivo, Madagascar
| | - Romario
- Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, University of Toliara, Toliara, Madagascar
| | | | - Rocky E. Stroud
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Jessica Zamborain-Mason
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Provenzi L, Billeci L, Wright C, Xu Z. Editorial: Climate change challenge in pediatric psychology. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1439041. [PMID: 38947909 PMCID: PMC11211623 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1439041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Livio Provenzi
- Department of Brain and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Developmental Psychobiology Lab, IRCCS Mondino Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | - Lucia Billeci
- Institute of Clinical Physiology, National Research Council (CNR-IFC), Pisa, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Caradee Wright
- Climate Change and Health Research Programme, Environment and Health Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Meteorology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Zhiwei Xu
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast, QLD, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Mitchell A, Maheen H, Bowen K. Mental health impacts from repeated climate disasters: an australian longitudinal analysis. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2024; 47:101087. [PMID: 38831889 PMCID: PMC11145535 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2024.101087] [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: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
Background Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and intense under changing climatic conditions. Whilst there is substantial evidence that exposure to a single weather related disaster is detrimental for mental health, few studies have explored how exposure to multiple disasters impacts mental health. Methods We utilised 11 waves of data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) Survey, yielding a sample of 16,629 observations from 2003 individuals. Fixed effects linear regression analysis was used to estimate the impact of experiencing multiple disasters on mental health. We tested for effect modification on this association by sex, rurality, employment and presence of a long-term health condition. Findings Exposure to multiple disasters was associated with a relative decrease in MHI-5 score compared to baseline by -1.8 points (95% CI -3.4, -0.3), whereas exposure to a single disaster was not associated with a decline in mental health scores. There was evidence of effect modification by employment status. Unemployed individuals had evidence of moderate reduction in MHI-5 scores when exposed to a single disaster (-4.3, 95% CI -7.0, -1.5). Interpretation Findings suggest that repeat exposure to disasters is associated with worsening mental health outcomes. As extreme weather events increase, these findings highlight the need for greater attention on climate change action, and mental health interventions targeting impacted populations. Funding Suicide Prevention Australia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mitchell
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Humaira Maheen
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| | - Kathryn Bowen
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, 207 Bouverie St, Carlton, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cerna-Turoff I, Casey JA, Keyes K, Rudolph KE, Malinsky D. Longitudinal patterns of natural hazard exposures and anxiety and depression symptoms among young adults in four low- and middle-income countries. Sci Rep 2024; 14:10538. [PMID: 38719874 PMCID: PMC11078992 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-60106-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
We estimated the effect of community-level natural hazard exposure during prior developmental stages on later anxiety and depression symptoms among young adults and potential differences stratified by gender. We analyzed longitudinal data (2002-2020) on 5585 young adults between 19 and 26 years in Ethiopia, India, Peru, and Vietnam. A binary question identified community-level exposure, and psychometrically validated scales measured recent anxiety and depression symptoms. Young adults with three exposure histories ("time point 1," "time point 2," and "both time points") were contrasted with their unexposed peers. We applied a longitudinal targeted minimum loss-based estimator with an ensemble of machine learning algorithms for estimation. Young adults living in exposed communities did not exhibit substantially different anxiety or depression symptoms from their unexposed peers, except for young women in Ethiopia who exhibited less anxiety symptoms (average causal effect [ACE] estimate = - 8.86 [95% CI: - 17.04, - 0.68] anxiety score). In this study, singular and repeated natural hazard exposures generally were not associated with later anxiety and depression symptoms. Further examination is needed to understand how distal natural hazard exposures affect lifelong mental health, which aspects of natural hazards are most salient, how disaster relief may modify symptoms, and gendered, age-specific, and contextual differences.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilan Cerna-Turoff
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA.
| | - Joan A Casey
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
- School of Public Health, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Katherine Keyes
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Kara E Rudolph
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Malinsky
- Mailman School of Public Health, Department of Biostatistics, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wu Y, Gasevic D, Wen B, Yang Z, Yu P, Zhou G, Zhang Y, Song J, Liu H, Li S, Guo Y. Floods and cause-specific mortality in the UK: a nested case-control study. BMC Med 2024; 22:188. [PMID: 38715068 PMCID: PMC11077877 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-024-03412-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Floods are the most frequent weather-related disaster, causing significant health impacts worldwide. Limited studies have examined the long-term consequences of flooding exposure. METHODS Flood data were retrieved from the Dartmouth Flood Observatory and linked with health data from 499,487 UK Biobank participants. To calculate the annual cumulative flooding exposure, we multiplied the duration and severity of each flood event and then summed these values for each year. We conducted a nested case-control analysis to evaluate the long-term effect of flooding exposure on all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Each case was matched with eight controls. Flooding exposure was modelled using a distributed lag non-linear model to capture its nonlinear and lagged effects. RESULTS The risk of all-cause mortality increased by 6.7% (odds ratio (OR): 1.067, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.063-1.071) for every unit increase in flood index after confounders had been controlled for. The mortality risk from neurological and mental diseases was negligible in the current year, but strongest in the lag years 3 and 4. By contrast, the risk of mortality from suicide was the strongest in the current year (OR: 1.018, 95% CI: 1.008-1.028), and attenuated to lag year 5. Participants with higher levels of education and household income had a higher estimated risk of death from most causes whereas the risk of suicide-related mortality was higher among participants who were obese, had lower household income, engaged in less physical activity, were non-moderate alcohol consumers, and those living in more deprived areas. CONCLUSIONS Long-term exposure to floods is associated with an increased risk of mortality. The health consequences of flooding exposure would vary across different periods after the event, with different profiles of vulnerable populations identified for different causes of death. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the long-term impacts of flooding exposure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yao Wu
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 2, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Danijela Gasevic
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 2, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Bo Wen
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 2, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Zhengyu Yang
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 2, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Pei Yu
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Level 2, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Guowei Zhou
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Jiangning Song
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - Hong Liu
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Shanshan Li
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China
| | - Yuming Guo
- Department of Dermatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, 410008, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fekih-Romdhane F, Malaeb D, Postigo A, Sakr F, Dabbous M, Khatib SE, Obeid S, Hallit S. The relationship between climate change anxiety and psychotic experiences is mediated by death anxiety. Int J Soc Psychiatry 2024; 70:574-581. [PMID: 38279578 DOI: 10.1177/00207640231221102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As climate change persists, accelerates, and intensifies, and since mitigating factors are absent, mental health impacts are expected to follow the same patterns. Therefore, it appears of utmost importance to deepen and broaden the knowledge and understanding of how and through which mechanisms climate change anxiety (CCA) may interplay with mental health outcomes. Based on the stress-vulnerability model of psychosis, the present study proposed to examine the relationship between CCA and psychotic experiences (PEs), and to test the theoretically-driven hypothesis that death anxiety acts as a mediator in this relationship. METHOD This study adopted a cross-sectional approach involving a sample of young adults aged 18 to 35 years (mean age = 24.56 ± 22.49 years; 63.9% females) originating from, and residing in Lebanon. RESULTS The results of the mediation analysis showed that death anxiety partially mediated the association between CCA and PEs. Higher CCA was significantly associated with higher death anxiety; higher death anxiety was significantly associated with more PEs. Finally, higher CCA was directly and significantly associated with more PEs. CONCLUSION Drawing from the present preliminary findings, the key tentative recommendation is that addressing death anxiety might alleviate the association between CCA and PEs. In addition, government decision-makers need to recognize the necessity of considering climate change implications on mental health in policy and decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feten Fekih-Romdhane
- The Tunisian Center of Early Intervention in Psychosis, Department of Psychiatry "Ibn Omrane," Razi Hospital, Manouba, Tunisia
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis El Manar University, Tunisia
| | - Diana Malaeb
- College of Pharmacy, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
| | | | - Fouad Sakr
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mariam Dabbous
- School of Pharmacy, Lebanese International University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Sami El Khatib
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese International University, Bekaa, Lebanon
- Center for Applied Mathematics and Bioinformatics (CAMB), Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), Hawally, Kuwait
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Social and Education Sciences Department, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon
- Psychology Department, College of Humanities, Effat University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Applied Science Research Center, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Aga IZ, Khurram SS, Karim M, Muzzamil M, Hashmi S, Shafique K. Employing telepsychiatry services to assess the prevalence and identify mental health disorders using the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 in resource-constrained regions of Dadar Mansehra, Pakistan: an observational cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e078976. [PMID: 38072482 PMCID: PMC10729168 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aims to measure the prevalence of mental health disorders in low-resource settings through telepsychiatry and evaluate data from Pakistan's Sehat Kahani nurse-assisted online clinics serving low-income communities. This will help to understand the magnitude and nature of the demand for contextual therapies to promote mental health. The paper will discuss the challenges faced in these settings, such as limited access to mental health facilities, stigma and opportunities telemedicine brings. DESIGN An observational cross-sectional study of telepsychiatry consultations using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 and Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7 to screen for depression and anxiety was conducted between October and December 2022. SETTING This research was conducted at Dadar Mansehra e-health clinics of Sehat Kahani with telepsychiatry services in Pakistan. PARTICIPANTS The study included 2660 participants who visited Sehat Kahani e-health clinics between October and December 2022 and voluntarily completed the questionnaire for data collection. RESULTS The study was comprised of 2660 participants with a mean age of 34.3 years. The study findings show that the majority of participants were females (98.4%), 16.9% of participants had moderate depression, and 20.8% had severe depression. Furthermore, the participants who were widowed/divorced were more likely to have depression than those who were single (OR=3.3, 95% CI (2.0 to 5.2)). CONCLUSIONS Based on the findings, most study participants were female, and their mental health was negatively impacted. Women in Pakistan are disproportionately affected by the rising rates of depression and anxiety, and telepsychiatry therapies effectively respond to this growing need. Potentially, it is a game-changer for dealing with mental health problems. Telepsychiatry can help policymakers and mental health professionals to develop effective low-income mental health initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iffat Zafar Aga
- Public Health & Digital Health, Sehat Kahani C/O Community Innovation Hub, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Global Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Sara Saeed Khurram
- Public Health & Digital Health, Sehat Kahani C/O Community Innovation Hub, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Health Policy and Management, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Mahek Karim
- Public Health & Digital Health, Sehat Kahani C/O Community Innovation Hub, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Department of Community Health Sciences, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Muzzamil
- Public Health & Digital Health, Sehat Kahani C/O Community Innovation Hub, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
- Public Health, Health Services Academy, Islamabad, Punjab, Pakistan
| | - Shahkamal Hashmi
- Public Health, Ziauddin Medical University, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| | - Kashif Shafique
- Public Health, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Picetti R, Juel R, Milner J, Bonell A, Karakas F, Dangour AD, Yeung S, Wilkinson P, Hughes R. Effects on child and adolescent health of climate change mitigation policies: A systematic review of modelling studies. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 238:117102. [PMID: 37689334 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117102] [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: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
There is a growing body of modelling evidence that demonstrates the potential for immediate and substantial benefits to adult health from greenhouse gas mitigation actions, but the effects on the health of younger age groups is largely unknown. We conducted a systematic review to identify the available published evidence of the modelled effects on child and adolescent health (≤18 years of age) of greenhouse gas mitigation. We searched six databases of peer-reviewed studies published between January 1, 1990 and July 27, 2022, screened 27,282 original papers and included 23 eligible papers. All included studies were set in high- and middle-income countries; and all studies modelled the effects of interventions that could mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Most of the available evidence suggests positive benefits for child and adolescent respiratory health from greenhouse gas mitigation actions that simultaneously reduce air pollution (specifically PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide). We found scant evidence on child and adolescent health from regions more vulnerable to climate change, or on mitigation interventions that could affect exposures other than air pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Picetti
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK.
| | - Rachel Juel
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - James Milner
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Ana Bonell
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre for Maternal Adolescent Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH), London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Filiz Karakas
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Alan D Dangour
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Shunmay Yeung
- Centre for Maternal Adolescent Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH), London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Paul Wilkinson
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Robert Hughes
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Population Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre for Maternal Adolescent Reproductive & Child Health (MARCH), London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Xu R, Yu P, Liu Y, Chen G, Yang Z, Zhang Y, Wu Y, Beggs PJ, Zhang Y, Boocock J, Ji F, Hanigan I, Jay O, Bi P, Vargas N, Leder K, Green D, Quail K, Huxley R, Jalaludin B, Hu W, Dennekamp M, Vardoulakis S, Bone A, Abrahams J, Johnston FH, Broome R, Capon T, Li S, Guo Y. Climate change, environmental extremes, and human health in Australia: challenges, adaptation strategies, and policy gaps. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2023; 40:100936. [PMID: 38116505 PMCID: PMC10730315 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2023.100936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Climate change presents a major public health concern in Australia, marked by unprecedented wildfires, heatwaves, floods, droughts, and the spread of climate-sensitive infectious diseases. Despite these challenges, Australia's response to the climate crisis has been inadequate and subject to change by politics, public sentiment, and global developments. This study illustrates the spatiotemporal patterns of selected climate-related environmental extremes (heatwaves, wildfires, floods, and droughts) across Australia during the past two decades, and summarizes climate adaptation measures and actions that have been taken by the national, state/territory, and local governments. Our findings reveal significant impacts of climate-related environmental extremes on the health and well-being of Australians. While governments have implemented various adaptation strategies, these plans must be further developed to yield concrete actions. Moreover, Indigenous Australians should not be left out in these adaptation efforts. A collaborative, comprehensive approach involving all levels of government is urgently needed to prevent, mitigate, and adapt to the health impacts of climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rongbin Xu
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Pei Yu
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Yanming Liu
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Gongbo Chen
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Zhengyu Yang
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Yiwen Zhang
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Yao Wu
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Paul J. Beggs
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Ying Zhang
- Sydney School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Jennifer Boocock
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia
| | - Fei Ji
- NSW Department of Planning and Environment, Sydney, NSW 2150, Australia
| | - Ivan Hanigan
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Climate Change and Health Impact Assessment, School of Population Health, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia
| | - Ollie Jay
- Heat and Health Research Incubator, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Peng Bi
- School of Public Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Nicole Vargas
- Heat and Health Research Incubator, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- School of Medicine and Psychology, College of Health & Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Karin Leder
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Donna Green
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Katie Quail
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Rachel Huxley
- Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Bin Jalaludin
- School of Population Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Wenbiao Hu
- School of Public Health & Social Work, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia
| | - Martine Dennekamp
- Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Melbourne, VIC 3053, Australia
| | - Sotiris Vardoulakis
- Healthy Environments And Lives (HEAL) National Research Network, College of Health and Medicine, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Angie Bone
- Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Jonathan Abrahams
- Monash University Disaster Resilience Initiative, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Fay H. Johnston
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7005, Australia
| | - Richard Broome
- The New South Wales Ministry of Health, Sydney, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Tony Capon
- Monash Sustainable Development Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Shanshan Li
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| | - Yuming Guo
- Climate, Air Quality Research Unit, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC 3004, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Vafeiadou A, Banissy MJ, Banissy JF, Higgins JP, Howard G. The influence of climate change on mental health in populations of the western Pacific region: An umbrella scoping review. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21457. [PMID: 38053883 PMCID: PMC10694052 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The Western Pacific Region (WPR) is on the front line of climate change challenges. Understanding how these challenges affect the WPR populations' mental health is essential to design effective prevention and care policies. Thus, the present study conducted an umbrella scoping review that examined the influence of climate change on mental health in the WPR, using review articles as a source of information. Ten review articles were selected according to eligibility criteria, and the findings were synthesized according to the socio-economic status of the countries identified: Australia, the Republic of Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam, the Pacific Islands (broadly), and China. The findings revealed that each country and sub-region has its own unique profile of climate change-related challenges and vulnerable populations, highlighting the need for specific approaches to mental health care. Specifically, the influence of climate-related challenges differed according to populations' region (e.g., rural populations), demographic characteristics (e.g., age and gender), culture (e.g., traditional tights to land), and employment (e.g., farmers and fishers). The most frequently reported mental health outcomes in response to climate change-related challenges such as droughts, floods, storms, tornadoes, typhoons, and climate-related migration were the decline in mental well-being and the increase in post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. In addition, using the GRADE framework for assessing the certainty of the findings, we identified that the number of articles discussing associations between a given climate change challenge and a mental health outcome was overall limited. Based on our findings and findings on a global scale, we identified several key research gaps in WPR and provided recommendations for future research and policy strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michael J. Banissy
- Department of Psychology, Goldsmiths, University of London, London, UK
- School of Psychological Science, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Julian P.T. Higgins
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Guy Howard
- Cabot Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Harper SL, Cunsolo A, Aylward B, Clayton S, Minor K, Cooper M, Vriezen R. Estimating climate change and mental health impacts in Canada: A cross-sectional survey protocol. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291303. [PMID: 37819884 PMCID: PMC10566728 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Climate change has severe and sweeping impacts on mental health. Although research is burgeoning on mental health impacts following climate and weather extremes, less is known about how common these impacts are outside of extreme events. Existing research exploring the prevalence of psychosocial responses to climate change primarily examines university students and uses non-random sampling methods. Herein, our protocol outlines an approach to data collection, processing, and analysis to estimate the population prevalence, magnitude, and distribution of mental health responses to climate change in Canada. A cross-sectional survey of youth and adults aged 13 years and older in Canada will be administered over the course of one year. The questionnaire will take approximately 10 minutes to complete orally and will be administered in English, French, and Inuktitut. The survey will consist of six sections: (1) self-reported past experiences of climate change; (2) self-reported climate-related emotions; (3) self-reported past and current impacts, anticipatory impacts, and vicarious experiences; (4) self-reported subclinical outcomes; (5) self-reported behavioural responses; and (6) demographics. A multi-stage, multi-stratified random probability sampling method will be used to obtain a sample representative of the Canadian population. We will use two different modes of recruitment: an addressed letter sent by postal mail or a telephone call (landlines and cellular). Population-weighted descriptive statistics, principal component analysis, and weighted multivariable regression will be used to analyse the data. The results of this survey will provide the first national prevalence estimates of subclinical mental health responses to climate change outcomes of people living in Canada.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ashlee Cunsolo
- School of Arctic & Subarctic Studies, Labrador Campus of Memorial University, Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Canada
| | - Breanne Aylward
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Susan Clayton
- College of Wooster, Wooster, Ohio, United States of America
| | - Kelton Minor
- Data Science Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Madison Cooper
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Rachael Vriezen
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Butsch C, Beckers LM, Nilson E, Frassl M, Brennholt N, Kwiatkowski R, Söder M. Health impacts of extreme weather events - Cascading risks in a changing climate. JOURNAL OF HEALTH MONITORING 2023; 8:33-56. [PMID: 37799532 PMCID: PMC10548486 DOI: 10.25646/11652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Background Extreme weather events represent one of the most tangible impacts of anthropogenic climate change. They have increased in number and severity and a further increase is expected. This is accompanied by direct and indirect negative consequences for human health. Methods Flooding events, storms and droughts are analysed here for Germany from a systemic perspective on the basis of a comprehensive literature review. Cascading risks beyond the initial event are also taken into account in order to depict downstream consequences. Results In addition to the immediate health burdens caused by extreme weather events such as injuries, long-term consequences such as stress-related mental disorders occur. These stresses particularly affect certain vulnerable groups, e.g. older persons, children, pregnant women or first responders. Conclusions A look at the cascading risks described in the international literature allows us to develop precautionary measures for adaptation to the consequences of climate change. Many adaptation measures protect against different risks at the same time. In addition to planning measures, these include, above all, increasing the population's ability to protect itself through knowledge and strengthening of social networks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carsten Butsch
- University of Bonn, Germany Department of Geography
- University of Cologne, Germany Institute of Geography
| | | | - Enno Nilson
- Federal Institute of Hydrology Koblenz, Germany
| | | | - Nicole Brennholt
- North Rhine-Westphalia State Office for Nature, Environment and Consumer Protection Department of Water Management and Protection Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - René Kwiatkowski
- Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance Department for Risk Management, International Affairs Bonn, Germany
| | - Mareike Söder
- Johann Heinrich von Thünen Institute Coordination Unit Climate and Soil Braunschweig, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Sampath V, Shalakhti O, Veidis E, Efobi JAI, Shamji MH, Agache I, Skevaki C, Renz H, Nadeau KC. Acute and chronic impacts of heat stress on planetary health. Allergy 2023; 78:2109-2120. [PMID: 36883412 DOI: 10.1111/all.15702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Abstract
Heat waves are increasing in intensity, frequency, and duration causing significant heat stress in all living organisms. Heat stress has multiple negative effects on plants affecting photosynthesis, respiration, growth, development, and reproduction. It also impacts animals leading to physiological and behavioral alterations, such as reduced caloric intake, increased water intake, and decreased reproduction and growth. In humans, epidemiological studies have shown that heat waves are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. There are many biological effects of heat stress (structural changes, enzyme function disruption, damage through reactive oxygen or nitrogen species). While plants and animals can mitigate some of these effects through adaptive mechanisms such as the generation of heat shock proteins, antioxidants, stress granules, and others, these mechanisms may likely be inadequate with further global warming. This review summarizes the effects of heat stress on plants and animals and the adaptative mechanisms that have evolved to counteract this stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanitha Sampath
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, California, Stanford, USA
| | - Omar Shalakhti
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, California, Stanford, USA
| | - Erika Veidis
- Center for Innovation in Global Health, Stanford University, California, Stanford, USA
| | - Jo Ann Ifeoma Efobi
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy and Asthma Research at Stanford University, California, Stanford, USA
| | - Mohamed H Shamji
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- NIHR Imperial Biomedical Research Centre, London, UK
| | - Ioana Agache
- Faculty of Medicine, Transylvania University, Brasov, Romania
| | - Chrysanthi Skevaki
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Harald Renz
- Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Philipps-University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- German Center for Lung Research (DZL), Universities of Giessen and Marburg Lung Center (UGMLC), Philipps University Marburg, Marburg, Germany
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
- Kilimanjaro Christian Medical University College (KCMUCo), Moshi, Tanzania
| | - Kari C Nadeau
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Alvi MH, Ashraf T, Kiran T, Iqbal N, Gumber A, Patel A, Husain N. Economic burden of mental illness in Pakistan: an estimation for the year 2020 from existing evidence. BJPsych Int 2023; 20:54-56. [PMID: 37531228 PMCID: PMC10387434 DOI: 10.1192/bji.2023.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023] Open
Abstract
This report is based on the extrapolation to 2020 of data on the economic burden of mental illnesses in Pakistan in 2006. Given the resultant estimated high economic burden of mental illness in the country (£2.97 billion in 2020), we advocate a revised budget allocation to mental healthcare. As a resource-scarce nation that is entangled in natural disasters, Pakistan needs cost-effective psychological interventions such as culturally adapted manual-assisted problem-solving training (C-MAP) for the prevention of self-harm and suicide and to move towards attaining the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Although government has taken initiatives to support healthcare services (such as the Sehat Sahulat Program for universal health coverage), there is still a need to implement a cost-effective national digital model for mental healthcare such as the Agha Khan Development Network Digital Health Programme.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohsin Hassan Alvi
- Research Fellow, Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning, Karachi, Pakistan.
| | - Tehmina Ashraf
- Research Assistant, Remedial Center Hospital and Nursing Home, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Tayyeba Kiran
- Assistant Director Research and Development, Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Nasir Iqbal
- Associate Professor, Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Anil Gumber
- Principal Health Economist, College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Anita Patel
- Health Economist, Anita Patel Health Economics Consulting, London, UK
| | - Nusrat Husain
- Professor of Psychiatry, Division of Psychology & Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Vergunst F, Berry HL, Minor K, Chadi N. Climate Change and Substance-Use Behaviors: A Risk-Pathways Framework. PERSPECTIVES ON PSYCHOLOGICAL SCIENCE 2023; 18:936-954. [PMID: 36441663 PMCID: PMC10336608 DOI: 10.1177/17456916221132739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Climate change is undermining the mental and physical health of global populations, but the question of how it is affecting substance-use behaviors has not been systematically examined. In this narrative synthesis, we find that climate change could increase harmful substance use worldwide through at least five pathways: psychosocial stress arising from the destabilization of social, environmental, economic, and geopolitical support systems; increased rates of mental disorders; increased physical-health burden; incremental harmful changes to established behavior patterns; and worry about the dangers of unchecked climate change. These pathways could operate independently, additively, interactively, and cumulatively to increase substance-use vulnerability. Young people face disproportionate risks because of their high vulnerability to mental-health problems and substance-use disorders and greater number of life years ahead in which to be exposed to current and worsening climate change. We suggest that systems thinking and developmental life-course approaches provide practical frameworks for conceptualizing this relationship. Further conceptual, methodological, and empirical work is urgently needed to evaluate the nature and scope of this burden so that effective adaptive and preventive action can be taken.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francis Vergunst
- Department of Special Needs Education, University of Oslo
- Department of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Montreal
- Ste-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Helen L Berry
- Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University
| | - Kelton Minor
- Center for Social Data Science, University of Copenhagen
- Data Science Institute, Columbia University
| | - Nicholas Chadi
- Ste-Justine University Hospital Research Center, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Thompson R, Lawrance EL, Roberts LF, Grailey K, Ashrafian H, Maheswaran H, Toledano MB, Darzi A. Ambient temperature and mental health: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Lancet Planet Health 2023; 7:e580-e589. [PMID: 37437999 DOI: 10.1016/s2542-5196(23)00104-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence indicates that ambient outdoor temperature could affect mental health, which is especially concerning in the context of climate change. We aimed to comprehensively analyse the current evidence regarding the associations between ambient temperature and mental health outcomes. METHODS We did a systematic review and meta-analysis of the evidence regarding associations between ambient outdoor temperature and changes in mental health outcomes. We searched WebOfScience, Embase, PsychINFO, and PubMed for articles published from database origin up to April 7, 2022. Eligible articles were epidemiological, observational studies in humans of all ages, which evaluated real-world responses to ambient outdoor temperature, and had mental health as a documented outcome; studies of manipulated or controlled temperature or those with only physical health outcomes were excluded. All eligible studies were synthesised qualitatively. If three or more studies reported the same or equivalent effect statistics and if they had equivalent exposure, outcome, and metrics, the studies were pooled in a random-effects meta-analysis. The risk of bias for individual studies was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. The quality of evidence across studies was assessed using the Office of Health Assessment and Translation (OHAT) approach. FINDINGS 114 studies were included in the systematic review, of which 19 were suitable for meta-analysis. Three meta-analyses were conducted for suicide outcomes: a 1°C increase in mean monthly temperature was associated with an increase in incidence of 1·5% (95% CI 0·8-2·2, p<0·001; n=1 563 109, seven effects pooled from three studies); a 1°C increase in mean daily temperature was associated with an increase in incidence of 1·7% (0·3-3·0, p=0·014; n=113 523, five effects pooled from five studies); and a 1°C increase in mean monthly temperature was associated with a risk ratio of 1·01 (95% CI 1·00-1·01, p<0·001; n=111 794, six effects pooled from three studies). Three meta-analyses were conducted for hospital attendance or admission for mental illness: heatwaves versus non-heatwave periods were associated with an increase in incidence of 9·7% (95% CI 7·6-11·9, p<0·001; n=362 086, three studies); the risk ratio at the 99th percentile of daily mean temperature compared with the 50th percentile was 1·02 (95% CI 1·01-1·03, p=0·006; n=532 296, three studies); and no significant association was found between a 10°C increase in daily mean temperature and hospital attendance. In a qualitative narrative synthesis, we found that ambient outdoor temperature (including absolute temperatures, temperature variability, and heatwaves) was positively associated with attempted and completed suicides (86 studies), hospital attendance or admission for mental illness (43 studies), and worse outcomes for community mental health and wellbeing (19 studies), but much of the evidence was of low certainty with high heterogeneity. INTERPRETATION Increased temperature and temperature variability could be associated with increased cases of suicide and suicidal behaviour, hospital attendance or admission for mental illness, and poor community health and wellbeing. Climate change is likely to increase temperature anomalies, variability, and heatwaves as well as average temperatures; as such, health system leaders and policy makers must be adequately prepared and should develop adaptation strategies. More high-quality, standardised research is required to improve our understanding of these effects. FUNDING None.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Emma L Lawrance
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK; Mental Health Innovations, London, UK.
| | - Lily F Roberts
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Kate Grailey
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hutan Ashrafian
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Mireille B Toledano
- School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK; Mohn Centre for Children's Health and Wellbeing, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ara Darzi
- Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Rosa WE, Grant L. Palliative Justice Post-COP27. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2023; 96:257-260. [PMID: 37396979 PMCID: PMC10303251 DOI: 10.59249/rtyb9681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
The climate crisis is a planetary existential threat, disproportionately affecting the poorest populations worldwide. People in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experience the most detrimental consequences of climate injustice, endangering their livelihoods, safety, overall wellbeing, and survival. Although the 2022 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) put forth several internationally salient recommendations, the outcomes fall short to efficiently tackle the suffering that exists at the intersection of social and climate injustice. Individuals with serious illness living in LMICs have the highest burden of health-related suffering globally. In fact, more than 61 million people experience serious health-related suffering (SHS) each year that is amenable to palliative care. Despite this well-documented burden of SHS, an estimated 88-90% of palliative care need is unmet, the majority in LMICs. To equitably address suffering at individual, population, and planetary levels in LMICs, a palliative justice approach is crucial. The interplay of human and planetary suffering requires that current planetary health recommendations be expanded to incorporate a whole-person and whole-people perspective that recognizes the need for environmentally conscious and community-based research and policy initiatives. Conversely, palliative care efforts should incorporate planetary health considerations to ensure sustainability in capacity building and service provision. In sum, the optimal health of the planet will remain elusive until we can holistically recognize the value of relieving all suffering due to life-limiting conditions, as well as the value in preserving the natural resources of countries in which all people are born, live, age, suffer, die, and grieve.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- William E. Rosa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences,
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Liz Grant
- Global Health Academy, University of Edinburgh,
Edinburgh, Scotland
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kong JD, Akpudo UE, Effoduh JO, Bragazzi NL. Leveraging Responsible, Explainable, and Local Artificial Intelligence Solutions for Clinical Public Health in the Global South. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:healthcare11040457. [PMID: 36832991 PMCID: PMC9956248 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11040457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In the present paper, we will explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics (BDA) can help address clinical public and global health needs in the Global South, leveraging and capitalizing on our experience with the "Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium" (ACADIC) Project in the Global South, and focusing on the ethical and regulatory challenges we had to face. "Clinical public health" can be defined as an interdisciplinary field, at the intersection of clinical medicine and public health, whilst "clinical global health" is the practice of clinical public health with a special focus on health issue management in resource-limited settings and contexts, including the Global South. As such, clinical public and global health represent vital approaches, instrumental in (i) applying a community/population perspective to clinical practice as well as a clinical lens to community/population health, (ii) identifying health needs both at the individual and community/population levels, (iii) systematically addressing the determinants of health, including the social and structural ones, (iv) reaching the goals of population's health and well-being, especially of socially vulnerable, underserved communities, (v) better coordinating and integrating the delivery of healthcare provisions, (vi) strengthening health promotion, health protection, and health equity, and (vii) closing gender inequality and other (ethnic and socio-economic) disparities and gaps. Clinical public and global health are called to respond to the more pressing healthcare needs and challenges of our contemporary society, for which AI and BDA can help unlock new options and perspectives. In the aftermath of the still ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the future trend of AI and BDA in the healthcare field will be devoted to building a more healthy, resilient society, able to face several challenges arising from globally networked hyper-risks, including ageing, multimorbidity, chronic disease accumulation, and climate change.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jude Dzevela Kong
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Global South Artificial Intelligence for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network (AI4PEP), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Correspondence: (J.D.K.); (N.L.B.)
| | - Ugochukwu Ejike Akpudo
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Jake Okechukwu Effoduh
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Global South Artificial Intelligence for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network (AI4PEP), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - Nicola Luigi Bragazzi
- Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Global South Artificial Intelligence for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network (AI4PEP), York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
- Correspondence: (J.D.K.); (N.L.B.)
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Rodgers RF, Paxton SJ, Nagata JM, Becker AE. The impact of climate change on eating disorders: An urgent call for research. Int J Eat Disord 2022; 56:909-913. [PMID: 36524750 DOI: 10.1002/eat.23876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Climate change affects many of the documented risk factors for eating disorders (EDs) through direct and indirect pathways, yet to date the research in this area is nonexistent. Our aim is to identify the specific mechanisms through which climate change might be associated with increased risk for EDs, an exacerbation in symptoms, or poor clinical outcomes; highlight limited empirical data addressing these issues; and propose directions for a research program in this important area. Pathways for the impact of climate change on eating disorders and related data were reviewed. Four main pathways for the effects of climate change on EDs were identified including (1) decreased food access and security; (2) changes in mean temperature; (3) concerns related to food safety and eco-anxiety; and (4) indirect pathways through trauma, adversity, and increased mental health concerns. Except for the relationship between increased food insecurity and EDs, these pathways remain largely uninvestigated. Numerous factors may be implicated in the relationship between climate change and EDs. Future work in this area is imperative and should be conducted through a social justice lens with particular attention paid to the global areas most impacted by climate change and related vulnerabilities. Climate change will likely have adverse impacts on individuals with eating disorders and increase the risk for eating disorders. This paper reviews the different ways in which climate change may have these effects and calls for researchers to pay attention to this important area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel F Rodgers
- Department of Applied Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.,Department of Psychiatric Emergency & Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, Montpellier, France
| | - Susan J Paxton
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jason M Nagata
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Anne E Becker
- Global Health & Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Nzayisenga E, Chan CW, Roome AB, Therrien AS, Sinclair I, Taleo G, Tarivonda L, Tosiro B, Malanga M, Tagaro M, Obed J, Iaruel J, Olszowy KM, Dancause KN. Patterns of distress and psychosocial support 2 years post-displacement following a natural disaster in a lower middle income country. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1017286. [PMID: 36438230 PMCID: PMC9692105 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1017286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Displacement due to natural disaster exposure is a major source of distress, and disproportionately affects people in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Public mental health resources following natural disasters and displacement are often limited in LMICs. In 2017, the population of one island in Vanuatu, a lower-middle income country, was displaced due to volcanic activity. Following the launch of a public mental health policy in 2009, psychosocial support interventions are increasingly available, providing an opportunity to assess relationships with distress following displacement. Methods 440 people contributed data. We assessed distress using a local adaptation of the Impact of Event Scale-Revised, and types of psychosocial support available and received, including from health professionals, support groups, and traditional networks such as chiefs, traditional healers, and church leaders. We analyzed relationships between distress and psychosocial support, controlling for sociodemographic covariates. Results Professional and group support was reported available by 86.8-95.1% of participants. Traditional support networks were widely used, especially by men. Availability of professional support predicted lower distress among men (p < 0.001) and women (p = 0.015) ( η p 2 = 0.026-0.083). Consulting church leaders for psychosocial support was associated with higher distress among men (p = 0.026) and women (p = 0.023) ( η p 2 = 0.024-0.031). Use of professional and group support was lower than reported availability. Discussion Increased collaboration between professional and traditional support networks could help respond to mental health needs following natural disasters in LMICs with limited infrastructure. Providing training and resources to church leaders might be a specific target for improvement. Promoting use of available services represents a continued public health need.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Nzayisenga
- Institut Santé et Sociéte (Institute of Health and Society), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Chim W. Chan
- Department of Parasitology, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Amanda B. Roome
- Bassett Research Institute, Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital, Cooperstown, NY, United States
| | - Ann-Sophie Therrien
- Département des sciences de l'activité physique (Department of Physical Activity Sciences), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Isabelle Sinclair
- Institut Santé et Sociéte (Institute of Health and Society), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kathryn M. Olszowy
- Department of Anthropology, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces, NM, United States
| | - Kelsey N. Dancause
- Institut Santé et Sociéte (Institute of Health and Society), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada,Département des sciences de l'activité physique (Department of Physical Activity Sciences), Université du Québec à Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada,*Correspondence: Kelsey N. Dancause ;
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Arnaouti MKC, Cahill G, Baird MD, Mangurat L, Harris R, Edme LPP, Joseph MN, Worlton T, Augustin S. Medical disaster response: A critical analysis of the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Front Public Health 2022; 10:995595. [PMID: 36388301 PMCID: PMC9665839 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.995595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction On January 12, 2010, a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the Republic of Haiti. The human cost was enormous-an estimated 316,000 people were killed, and a further 300,000 were injured. The scope of the disaster was matched by the scope of the response, which remains the largest multinational humanitarian response to date. An extensive scoping review of the relevant literature was undertaken, to identify studies that discussed the civilian and military disaster relief efforts. The aim was to highlight the key-lessons learned, that can be applied to future disaster response practise. Methods Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidance was followed. Seven scientific databases were searched, using consistent search terms-followed by an analysis of the existent Haitian literature. This process was supplemented by reviewing available grey literature. A total of 2,671 articles were reviewed, 106 of which were included in the study. In-depth analysis was structured, by aligning data to 12 key-domains, whilst also considering cross-sector interaction (Civilian-Civilian, Military-Military, and Civilian-Military). Dominant themes and lessons learned were identified and recorded in an online spreadsheet by an international research team. This study focuses on explicitly analysing the medical aspects of the humanitarian response. Results An unpreceded collaborative effort between non-governmental organisations, international militaries, and local stakeholders, led to a substantial number of disaster victims receiving life and limb-saving care. However, the response was not faultless. Relief efforts were complicated by large influxes of inexperienced actors, inadequate preliminary needs assessments, a lack of pre-existing policy regarding conduct and inter-agency collaboration, and limited consideration of post-disaster redevelopment during initial planning. Furthermore, one critical theme that bridged all aspects of the disaster response, was the failure of the international community to ensure Haitian involvement. Conclusions No modern disaster has yet been as devastating as the 2010 Haiti earthquake. Given the ongoing climate crisis, as well as the risks posed by armed conflict-this will not remain the case indefinitely. This systematic analysis of the combined civilian and military disaster response, offers vital evidence for informing future medical relief efforts-and provides considerable opportunity to advance knowledge pertaining to disaster response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Keith Charalambos Arnaouti
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Gabrielle Cahill
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Michael David Baird
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Laëlle Mangurat
- Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de l'Université d'État d'Haïti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | - Rachel Harris
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | | | - Michelle Nyah Joseph
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Program in Global Surgery and Social Change, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States,Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States,Clinical Trials Unit, University of Warwick, Warickshire, United Kingdom
| | - Tamara Worlton
- Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States,*Correspondence: Tamara Worlton
| | - Sylvio Augustin
- Hôpital de l'Universite d'Etat d'Haïti, Port-au-Prince, Haiti
| | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Affiliation(s)
- Howard Frumkin
- School of Public Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Sharpe I, Davison CM. A Scoping Review of Climate Change, Climate-Related Disasters, and Mental Disorders among Children in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19052896. [PMID: 35270593 PMCID: PMC8910112 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19052896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Children, particularly those living in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), are highly vulnerable to climate change and its impacts. Our main objective was to conduct a scoping literature review to determine how exposure to climate change and climate-related disasters influences the presence of mental disorders among children in LMICs. We also aimed to identify gaps in this area of scholarship. We included studies of children in LMICs that had a climate change or climate-related disaster exposure and mental disorder outcome. Twenty-three studies were included in the final synthesis. Fourteen studies were conducted in China, three in India, two each in Pakistan and the Philippines, and one each in Namibia and Dominica. All studies assessed the association between a climate-related disaster exposure and a mental disorder outcome, while none explored broader climate change-related exposures. Post-traumatic stress disorder (n = 21 studies) and depression (n = 8 studies) were the most common mental disorder outcomes. There was considerable between-study heterogeneity in terms of sample size, follow-up length, and outcome measurement. Overall, the literature in this area was sparse. Additional high-quality research is required to better understand the impacts of climate-related disasters and climate change on mental disorders within this population to ultimately inform future policies and interventions.
Collapse
|
25
|
Sheehan MC. 2021 Climate and Health Review - Uncharted Territory: Extreme Weather Events and Morbidity. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF HEALTH SERVICES 2022; 52:189-200. [PMID: 35229682 DOI: 10.1177/00207314221082452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Extreme weather events (EWEs) affected health in every world region during 2021, placing the planet in "uncharted territory." Portraying the human impacts of EWEs is part of a health frame that suggests public knowledge of these risks will spur support for needed policy change. The health frame has gained traction since the Paris COP21 (United Nations Climate Change Conference) and arguably helped to achieve modest progress at the Glasgow COP26. However, reporting rarely covers the full picture of health impacts from EWEs, instead focusing on cost of damages, mortality, and displacement. This review summarizes data for 30 major EWEs of 2021 and, based on the epidemiological literature, discusses morbidity-related exposures for four hazards that marked the year: wildfire smoke; extreme cold and power outages; extreme, precipitation-related flooding; and drought. A very large likely burden of morbidity was found, with particularly widespread exposure to risk of respiratory outcomes (including interactions with COVID-19) and mental illnesses. There is need for a well-disseminated global annual report on EWE morbidity, including affected population estimates and evolving science. In this way, the public health frame may be harnessed to bolster evidence for the broader and promising frame of "urgency and agency" for climate change action.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary C Sheehan
- Department of Health Policy & Management, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, USA.,Public Policy Center, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Sharpe I, Davison CM. Investigating the role of climate-related disasters in the relationship between food insecurity and mental health for youth aged 15-24 in 142 countries. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000560. [PMID: 36962728 PMCID: PMC10021754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Food insecurity (FI) represents a major global health challenge. Because climate-related disasters are a determinant of both FI and poor mental health, we investigated whether the severity of these disasters intensifies the relationship between FI and youth mental health. Data on FI and mental health came from the Gallup World Poll, a nationally representative survey of individuals in 142 countries, which included 28,292 youth aged 15-24. Data on climate-related disasters came from the International Disaster Database, a country-level record of disasters. Multilevel negative binomial regression was used to calculate relative risk (RR) of poor mental health. Youth with moderate or severe FI were significantly more likely to report poor mental health experiences compared to those with none/mild FI (moderate: RR 1.37, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.32-1.41; severe: 1.60, 95% CI 1.54-1.66). We also observed a weak yet significant interaction effect (p<0.0001), which suggested that the country-level relationship between FI and poor mental health is slightly stronger at greater disaster severity. While further research is needed to improve our understanding of these complex relationships, these findings suggest that mental health should be considered when undertaking national climate change actions and that additional FI-related supports may work to improve youth mental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Isobel Sharpe
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Colleen M Davison
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| |
Collapse
|