The impacts of climate change on global skin health

Climate change represents the greatest global health threat of the 21st century. The specialty of dermatology is uniquely positioned within this crisis because the skin directly interfaces with the external environment, reflecting the many climate-sensitive drivers of disease that are influenced by heat, humidity, precipitation, storms, drought, pollution, and ecological disruption. Specifically, climate change contributes to an increased incidence and severity of infectious, autoinflammatory, and neoplastic skin diseases, and extreme weather events disrupt dermatologic care delivery, particularly in resource-limited regions. Vulnerable populations-including the Global South, low-income communities, outdoor laborers, and climate-displaced persons-experience disproportionate exposure and reduced access to dermatologic care. Dermatologists play a critical role in recognizing and mitigating the health consequences of climate change. Integrating planetary health principles into dermatologic practice, disease surveillance, research, advocacy, and education is essential for global health equity and climate resilience. In this review, we examine the multifaceted effects of climate change on dermatologic disease burden, access to care, and global health equity, while highlighting opportunities for mitigation and adaptation within the specialty.

Abstract from PubMed