Extramural US Federal Research Grants For Health Outcomes Associated With Climate Change Inadequate, Too Narrow In
Cecilia Sorensen1, Caleb Dresser2, Arjun Balakumar3
1Cecilia Sorensen (cjs2282@cumc.columbia.edu), Columbia University, New York, New York.
Health Affairs (Project Hope)
|September 5, 2023
Summary
Federal funding for climate change and health research between 2010-2020 was limited, totaling $58.7 million. This investment did not adequately cover climate-sensitive health outcomes or vulnerable populations, highlighting a need for increased funding and focus on health equity.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Public Health Research
- Health Disparities
Background:
- Climate change significantly impacts human health, exacerbating diseases and health disparities.
- Existing knowledge gaps in climate change and health research are compounded by insufficient federal funding.
- Understanding research funding is crucial for developing evidence-based public health strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and describe extramural US federal research funding for climate change and health outcomes from 2010 to 2020.
- To assess the adequacy of federal investments in addressing climate-sensitive health issues and vulnerable populations.
- To inform future research funding priorities and strategies for climate change and health.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a systematic review of extramural US federal research grants awarded between 2010 and 2020.
- Included grants that addressed health outcomes associated with climate change.
- Quantified the total funding amount and analyzed its distribution across climate-sensitive exposures, health outcomes, and population impacts.
Main Results:
- A total of 102 grants were identified, amounting to approximately $58.7 million ($5.3 million annually in 2020 USD).
- Federal funding during this period did not comprehensively address the range of climate-sensitive exposures, health outcomes, or impacts on vulnerable groups.
- Significant disparities exist in research funding allocation concerning climate change and health.
Conclusions:
- Current federal research funding for climate change and health is insufficient and narrowly focused.
- Future investments must prioritize vulnerable populations and health equity, alongside a broader scope of climate-sensitive hazards.
- Enhanced federal research coordination, cooperation, and funding tracking mechanisms are essential for effective climate change and health research.
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