Overview of Climate Change, Pollution, and Sustainability in the Rheumatic and Autoimmune Diseases

Most rheumatic and autoimmune diseases evolve over years from gene-environment interactions. Here, we consider the roles of climate change and pollution in this process and how we can minimize disease risks, enhance prevention, and promote sustainable activities to combat environmental degradation. The warming planet-with resultant increased heat effects, extreme weather events, wildfires, ultraviolet radiation, vector borne and zoonotic diseases, psychosocial stress, and pollution of water, food, and air-is likely increasing the rates and severity of these diseases. More research and coordination are needed to assess and quantify these impacts and develop optimal preventative and sustainable approaches.