Battling the Heat: How Climate Change is Reshaping Health in Pakistan

The "Pakistan - Climate and Health Vulnerability Assessment" by the World Bank reveals the severe impacts of climate change on health in Pakistan, emphasizing the urgent need for a resilient health system to cope with rising temperatures, shifting disease patterns, and food security challenges.

As one of the most geographically diverse countries in the world, Pakistan's climate challenges are both vast and varied. From the towering peaks of the Himalayas to the arid coastal plains along the Arabian Sea, the nation's landscapes are as complex as the climate changes it faces. A recent report, "Pakistan - Climate and Health Vulnerability Assessment," published by the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development/The World Bank, reveals the profound impact climate change is having on Pakistan's health sector.

Rising Temperatures and Health Risks

The report highlights a worrying trend: Pakistan is warming. Over the past century, average annual temperatures have climbed significantly, particularly in the regions of Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. This rise is not just a statistic; it translates into real health risks for millions of Pakistanis. Extreme heat is becoming a significant health threat, according to the report. As temperatures soar, the frequency and intensity of heatwaves increase, leading to more heat-related illnesses and deaths. The 2015 heatwave in Karachi, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, is a stark reminder of the deadly potential of extreme heat. The report predicts that by the mid-century, the number of days with temperatures exceeding 35°C will increase, with Punjab and Sindh bearing the brunt of this extreme heat.

Water and Vector-Borne Diseases on the Rise

Climate change is also altering the patterns of vector-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria. The report notes that over 62 million people in Pakistan are at risk of dengue, a number expected to rise as changing climate conditions expand the habitats suitable for the mosquitoes that transmit these diseases. Similarly, malaria risks are shifting, with northern regions likely to see increased suitability for malaria vectors. Waterborne diseases are another concern. Flooding, driven by increased precipitation and rising sea levels, can contaminate water supplies, leading to outbreaks of diseases like diarrhea. The report highlights that populations along the Indus River are particularly vulnerable to these risks.

The Nutritional Challenge

The impact of climate change on agriculture is another critical issue. With Pakistan heavily reliant on agriculture, changes in temperature and precipitation threaten food security. The report predicts a significant decline in wheat and rice production, particularly in Balochistan and lower Sindh, regions already facing food insecurity. This decline could exacerbate malnutrition, especially among the most vulnerable populations.

Strengthening the Health System

Pakistan's health system is currently ill-equipped to handle the escalating threats posed by climate change. The report identifies several key areas needing improvement: There is a need for better coordination across sectors to tackle climate-related health issues. Significant disparities exist between urban and rural health services, and there is a lack of training on climate-related health risks. Current systems are fragmented and do not adequately integrate climate data. Gaps exist between policy and practice, with a lack of climate-resilient health equipment. Health service delivery is challenged by the devolution of responsibilities to provincial levels. Low public investment in health leads to high out-of-pocket expenses, exacerbating poverty.

Recommendations for Resilience

To build a climate-resilient health system, the report offers several recommendations. Integrate climate-related health risks into national and subnational adaptation plans. Designate a national climate and health focal point and establish coordination with key stakeholders. Develop training programs on climate change and health for medical professionals and community health workers. Expand disease early warning systems to include climate-sensitive diseases. Ensure health infrastructure is climate-proof and resilient. Establish a national risk register for climate-health risks and develop seasonal climate outlooks. Pool health funds to cover climate-related health risks and include climate considerations in strategic purchasing.

The "Pakistan - Climate and Health Vulnerability Assessment" underscores the urgent need for integrated adaptation and mitigation strategies. As Pakistan faces a future with rising temperatures, shifting disease patterns, and food security challenges, building a resilient health system is not just necessary—it's imperative. The health of millions of Pakistanis depends on it.