Implementing Climate-Adaptive Strategies to Mitigate the Burden of Rheumatic Diseases

Climate change has been acknowledged as a major global public health concern that has influenced the general population. The reported changes in climate have been identified as a common risk factor in the development of rheumatic diseases in multiple ways. Extreme weather events can interfere with timely access to healthcare services, supply chain management of drugs and equipment, and the provision of rehabilitation services, which altogether can worsen the management of different rheumatic diseases. Acknowledging the impending changes in climate and their potential impact on the occurrence and progression of different rheumatic diseases, there is an immense need to implement targeted public health measures. In conclusion, climate change can influence the development and progression of existing rheumatic diseases in multiple ways. This calls for the need to design climate adaptation policies and implement targeted public health interventions to improve resilience to climate change.