Climate and health

This page, Climate and health, is offered by
Division of Environmental Toxicology, Hazard Assessment and Prevention
Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health
Department of Public Health

Changes in the climate are affecting our health: Increasing numbers of hot days may mean more heat-related illnesses and heart attacks. Poor air quality on hot days and more pollen in the air increases the risk of asthma attacks. Wetter and warmer conditions may mean more mosquito-borne diseases. More extreme storms can cause property damage, flooding, and loss of homes and businesses. 

While climate change affects everyone, it most impacts the health of people experiencing chronic health conditions, disabilities, social and/or economic disadvantages, and environmental exposures.

Climate and health equity educational videos

Three icons representing mosquito-borne desease, storms and flooding, and intense heat waves.

Watch videos of real scenarios for public health agencies, the medical community, advocacy groups, cities and towns, and residents to explore how climate change can affect the health of people and communities in Massachusetts.

Climate and health equity educational videos

Image credits: Shutterstock

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Climate and health

Climate and health fact sheets

Climate and health equity educational videos

Climate and health resources

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Climate and health

Extreme heat resource guide + Download information to help prepare for extreme heat at the local level.

Climate change tracking + The Massachusetts Public Health Tracking program provides a snapshot of environmental health for every community in the Commonwealth. Each snapshot includes health and environmental data and population information.

Climate and health equity + Some people are at higher risk of climate change impacts due to existing health problems, where they live, or their access to public health messaging. Learn about climate health and equity.

Addressing climate hazards + Massachusetts is increasingly vulnerable to climate hazards that impact health. The Climate Hazard Adaption Profiles (CHAPs) provide information about climate hazards for municipal officials, local groups, and others who want to take action.

Following climate and health pathways + Climate types that drive changes, hazards they cause, exposures to people and most vulnerable groups, and associated health risks are all connected via their own pathways.

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