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Climate Change and Environmental Exposures Across the Cancer Continuum: Implications for Oncology
Robert A Hiatt1,2, Jefferey L Burgess3, Prashant Mathur4
1Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, CA.
Summary
Climate change significantly impacts cancer risk and outcomes by altering environmental exposures and disrupting healthcare. Oncologists must address these climate-driven challenges to improve cancer care and health system resilience.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Oncology
- Climate Science
Background:
- Climate change is increasingly recognized as a significant determinant of human health, including cancer.
- It alters environmental exposures and extreme weather events, posing new challenges to cancer control and oncology.
- Climate-driven events like wildfires and hurricanes can increase cancer risk and disrupt essential healthcare services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the profound impact of climate change on cancer risk, control, and outcomes.
- To emphasize climate change's role within the broader exposome.
- To position oncologists as key leaders in addressing climate-related cancer challenges.
Main Methods:
- This study is a review and synthesis of current understanding regarding climate change and cancer.
- It analyzes the influence of climate change on environmental exposures, social conditions, and health systems.
- The role of oncologists in mitigating these impacts is discussed.
Main Results:
- Climate change exacerbates cancer risk through increased exposure to pollutants and environmental hazards.
- Extreme weather events linked to climate change disrupt cancer care delivery and patient access to services.
- Climate change is a critical component of the exposome, influencing overall health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Climate change is a major determinant of cancer risk and outcomes, affecting the entire cancer care continuum.
- Oncologists have a crucial role in understanding and addressing the downstream consequences of climate change on cancer patients.
- Actionable strategies are needed to enhance patient care and build resilient healthcare systems in the face of climate change.
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