511 The intersection of climate adaptation policies and health inequalities in the European region

Abstract EP1.1, e-Poster Terminal 1, September 3, 2025, 10:35 - 11:00 Aims To examine the integration of policies on climate change adaptation and health in the European region, with a focus on how these policies address the needs of vulnerable groups and migrants and to identify if specific interventions are targeted to better protect the health of these groups. Methods We conducted a policy review in March 2025 from relevant grey literature such as policy documents, reports and original articles from 2015 to 2025. The last ten-year period was chosen to provide the most updated policies and literature. Our search was conducted through Google Scholar, PubMed and reference list of the final report on Public Health and Climate Change Adaptation Policies in the European Union by WHO, Regional Office for Europe. Search words were ‘climate adaptation’ ‘adaptation policies’, ‘climate-related health policies’, ‘vulnerable groups’, ‘migrants’ health’, ‘European region’. Inclusion criteria were sources published in English, conducted about the European region. Results We reviewed 38 reports/policies and articles, identified elderly people, children, pregnant women, outdoor workers, people with chronic illnesses and low socioeconomic status as most vulnerable. Key adaptation measures are heat-health action plans, early warning systems, improved surveillance for climate-sensitive diseases, nature-based solutions, and climate risk assessments for more inclusiveness of the vulnerable groups and migrants who are often underrepresented in health impact assessments. Findings indicate that weak risk communication obstructs public awareness and responsiveness to climate-related threats and limited resources such as financial, technical and trained professionals at the local level restrict the implementation of adaptation measures. Factors that exacerbate vulnerability include housing challenges, citizenship rights, educational and language barriers. Conclusions This review highlights major gaps in climate adaptation policies, particularly in addressing health inequalities among vulnerable groups and migrants. Future policy should explore inclusive cross-sectoral strategies and stronger risk communication to better integrate health equity into climate resilience planning.