Climate change is already affecting our health, BMA says

The BMA has warned that climate change is already affecting our health

The BMA is warning that climate change and air pollution are already damaging the health of the public as the doctor’s union adds its voice to those taking part in the global climate movement today.

It has long called for the government to take urgent action by introducing legally enforced air quality standards.

To make the biggest impact on health, the BMA is also asking for the net-zero emissions target to be met by 2030 and for funding to be made available for research into the real economic and health impacts of air pollution and climate change.

Commenting, one of the BMA’s chief officers and GP, Dr Helena McKeown, said:

“It is inspiring to see young people here in the UK and all those across the globe caring about our world, raising awareness and calling for bold action on the climate emergency we are currently facing.

“As doctors we know only too well that poor air quality leads to serious illness, even death, as it affects not just our breathing, but people with diabetes, heart disease and dementia.

“Extreme environmental changes and the resulting risk of disease and infections are major health concerns that will further exacerbate poverty and inequalities.

“The scale of the change needed is far greater than we can achieve as individuals; the main agent of change is the government who has the power to act and implement the reforms needed to safeguard our health and that of future generations.”

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