The Implications of Climate Change on Health among Vulnerable Populations in South Africa: A Systematic Review.

Journal: International journal of environmental research and public health

Volume: 20

Issue: 4

Year of Publication: 2023

Affiliated Institutions:  Faculty of Public Health, Thammasat University, Pathum Thani, Bangkok , Thailand.

Abstract summary 

Climate change poses numerous threats to human life, including physical and mental health, the environment, housing, food security, and economic growth. People who already experience multidimensional poverty with the disparity in social, political, economic, historical, and environmental contexts are more vulnerable to these impacts. The study aims to identify the role of climate change in increasing multidimensional inequalities among vulnerable populations and analyze the strengths and limitations of South Africa's National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy. A systematic review was applied, and literature from Google, Google Scholar, and PubMed, as well as relevant gray literature from 2014-2022 were reviewed. Out of 854 identified sources, 24 were included in the review. Climate change has exacerbated multidimensional inequalities among vulnerable populations in South Africa. Though the National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy has paid attention to health issues and the needs of vulnerable groups, the adaptation measures appear to focus less on mental and occupational health. Climate change may play a significant role in increasing multidimensional inequalities and exacerbating health consequences among vulnerable populations. For an inclusive and sustainable reduction in inequalities and vulnerabilities to the impact of climate change, community-based health and social services should be enhanced among vulnerable populations.

Authors & Co-authors:  Khine Myo Myo MM Langkulsen Uma U

Study Outcome 

Source Link: Visit source

Statistics
Citations :  World Bank Monitoring Global Poverty. [(accessed on 8 November 2022)]. Available online: https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/34496/9781464816024_Ch1.pdf.
Authors :  2
Identifiers
Doi : 3425
SSN : 1660-4601
Study Population
Male,Female
Mesh Terms
Humans
Other Terms
South Africa;adaptation;climate change;health impacts;inequality;poverty;vulnerable populations
Study Design
Cross Sectional Study
Study Approach
Systemic Review
Country of Study
South Africa
Publication Country
Switzerland