Climate change is undermining our health, and the burden falls heaviest on women

Climate change is exacerbating health issues, with women in the Pacific shouldering the greatest burden, according to recent discussions at the pre-COP meeting in Fiji and Tuvalu. As sea levels rise, salty soil reduces arable land, while warmer oceans diminish fish stocks and contaminate freshwater sources, forcing communities to rely on imported, nutrient-poor food.

This, combined with intersecting social and economic factors, has led to a surge in chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Women, responsible for household care, face increased exhaustion and mental health challenges as they replant crops after extreme weather events. Despite these hardships, women are also at the forefront of developing climate solutions.

Australia is urged to recognize these leaders' efforts and prioritize health within global climate discussions. The upcoming COP31, aimed at implementing existing promises to limit warming to 1.5°C, must elevate health concerns, particularly among women. Chronic diseases, responsible for 87% of deaths in the Western Pacific, are worsening due to climate change.

Health policies need to address the interconnected systems of food, water, housing, gender equity, and economic security. The Pacific Resilience Facility, a Pacific-led climate finance mechanism, is funding women-led projects, such as water tank installations, highlighting the potential for climate adaptation to improve health and economic outcomes.

The article emphasizes the need for climate policy and finance to incorporate chronic disease prevention, primary care, and women's leadership to achieve a comprehensive and equitable response to climate change.