Climate change is a major issue for environmental health as well as public health. Warming temperatures contribute to longer and more severe pollen seasons. That makes respiratory diseases worse. So this week, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America joins nearly 20 other organizations in signing a statement called “A Declaration on Climate Change and Health.”

The letter is being released at the start of National Public Health Week. It is also World Allergy Week, a week created by the World Allergy Organization (WAO). The theme of this year’s World Allergy Week is: Pollen Allergies - Adapting to a Changing Climate.

The effects of climate change can worsen asthma attacks. Allergy seasons are becoming longer and more severe. Increased air pollution and severe weather patterns contribute to ill health. A rising rate of diseases carried by mosquitoes, ticks and other insects are also linked to climate change.

These changes hurt vulnerable populations the most:

• children
• senior citizens
• low-income communities
• some communities of color
• those with chronic disease

We need bold action to address climate change by cleaning up major sources of carbon pollution.

AAFA supports the Climate Action Plan, which will help cut carbon pollution and other greenhouse gases. Stay in touch with AAFA and our efforts on climate change by visiting our advocacy page.