Public health care workers have always been on the frontline, ensuring communities are protected against diseases, injuries and environmental hazards. However, climate change has become a new force that is redefining the principles of public health nowadays. It increases health risks through its diverse effects, including increased temperatures, severe weather patterns and changing ecosystems. The online Master of Public Health (MPH) at Eastern Washington University (EWU) trains the next generation of leaders to act.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a quarter of a million people will die from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea and heat stress due to climatic events, such as severe global warming. 2023 recorded the highest temperatures ever recorded, characterized by heat exhaustion, dehydration and cardiovascular events. This was most prevalent among older people and those working outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also noted that poor air quality can cause certain respiratory illnesses such as asthma and chronic obstructive lung disease.
Floods, hurricanes and wildfires destroy communities, impact the medical system and contaminate drinking water systems. Such incidents also contribute to the burden of mental illness, especially among children and low-income groups. Depression and anxiety, as well as trauma, may have long-lasting effects, even after the disaster passes.
What Are Public Health Organizations Doing in Response?
Climate health planning is an increasingly active component of the work of public health agencies. Health policy changes must include renewal of disease surveillance mechanisms, implementation of heat response programs and increased air and water cleanup policies.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides clear measures that health departments should follow, including ways to improve infrastructure to respond to flooding or ways to teach citizens about climate-sensitive illnesses. The Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH), with support from WHO Member States, guides the development of sustainable, resilient health systems that can withstand the impacts of climate change around the globe.
Environmental scientists, engineers and urban planners are also collaborating with public health professionals to create healthy and sustainably enriched communities. These partnerships reduce emissions, protect vulnerable people and manage climate disturbances.
How Does an MPH Program Prepare You to Lead in Climate and Health?
A Master of Public Health (MPH) provides dedicated, specialized training in health systems and environmental science, two of the most critical areas in addressing the effects of climate change. Students in the online MPH program at Eastern Washington University develop analytical and leadership abilities to influence policy, perform community evaluations and plan interventions to respond to the changing climate.
Relevant coursework includes:
- Environmental and Occupational Health, which explores the human impact on the environment and how environmental factors influence disease exposure and community risk
- Health Systems, which enables the student to assess the level of resilience of health systems under pressure by reviewing delivery systems
- Program Planning, Evaluation and Process Improvement, which teaches students to design, implement and evaluate interventions in ways that are responsive to community needs
Since the program is entirely online, it allows professionals to engage in coursework while pursuing their careers, providing real-world experiences coupled with academic knowledge.
What Career Paths Exist at the Intersection of Climate and Public Health?
Public health is a fast-growing field. With increasing climate risks, there is a growing demand for personnel knowledgeable about the climate-related risks to human health. Public health roles in climate-related programs include a variety of positions, including:
- Environmental health specialist: Monitors soil, air and water, and evaluates health risks
- Public health emergency planner: Develops community preparedness plans for climate-related disasters
- Health policy analyst: Advises on health policies regarding mitigation of climate risk, as well as how to enhance access to health care
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that there is steady growth in health educator and community health roles, and more climate-oriented positions are becoming available.
Why Climate and Public Health Must Move Forward Together
Public health organizations are responding to the rise of climate initiatives, proving that there is adaptive change in the field. Leadership in this area is imperative. As climate change negatively impacts the Earth, it also affects people’s mental and physical health.
By equipping professionals with the proper education and skills, programs like EWU’s online MPH are helping public health lead the climate response. As this field evolves, graduates will play a central role in maintaining population health in a hotter, less predictable world.
Learn more about the online Master of Public Health at Eastern Washington University.
