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Environmental sustainability in otolaryngologic surgery
Amanda E Dilger1,2,3, Regan W Bergmark1,3,4
1Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Harvard Medical School.
Summary
Climate change impacts health and causes disparities. Surgeons can reduce surgical care emissions and advocate for sustainability to address this public health crisis.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Public Health
- Surgical Care
Background:
- Climate change poses a significant public health threat, influencing disease patterns, health outcomes, and healthcare access.
- Air pollution and climate change are increasingly recognized as social determinants of health, particularly impacting otolaryngology patients.
- Surgical care contributes to healthcare emissions, necessitating a focus on sustainability within the operating room.
Approach:
- This review synthesitsizes current research on the health impacts of climate change, with a focus on otolaryngology.
- It examines the carbon footprint of surgical services and explores mitigation and adaptation strategies for surgeons.
- The review highlights opportunities for healthcare providers to implement sustainability initiatives and advocate for climate solutions.
Key Points:
- Climate change directly and indirectly affects health, including otolaryngologic conditions.
- Health disparities are exacerbated by the impacts of climate change.
- Sustainability initiatives in healthcare can lead to cost reductions and clinical benefits.
- Otolaryngologists have a crucial role in addressing the climate crisis through mitigation and adaptation.
Conclusions:
- Climate change and air pollution are critical factors influencing disease burden in otolaryngology.
- Surgeons can champion climate action by adopting sustainable practices in surgical settings.
- Engaging in research and advocacy is essential for otolaryngologists to lead on climate change mitigation and adaptation.
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