The Economics of Health and Climate Change
Author Information
Author(s): Guy Hutton
Primary Institution: World Health Organization
Hypothesis
What economic evidence can policy makers draw on in making their decisions regarding climate change?
Conclusion
More economic studies are needed to inform policy making regarding health adaptation to climate change.
Supporting Evidence
- Health damage costs represent an important fraction of overall economic losses due to climate change.
- Global adaptation cost studies indicate health sector costs of roughly US$2-5 billion annually.
- Current studies provide very imprecise information on costs and benefits related to climate-sensitive diseases.
Takeaway
This study looks at how climate change affects health and the costs involved, showing that we need more research to help make better health decisions.
Methodology
Literature was obtained using a Medline and INTERNET search of key terms and institutions working in health and climate change.
Potential Biases
The valuation of health impacts may be biased towards richer countries due to GDP-based assessments.
Limitations
The existing evidence base is generally of low quality and lacks comprehensive health-vulnerability assessments.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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