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When people think about health, they often focus on diet, exercise, and genetics. But the environment around us plays a huge role, bigger than most realize.
The World Health Organization states that nearly a quarter of global deaths are linked to environmental factors. That’s around 13 million deaths every year caused by things like air pollution, contaminated water, exposure to chemicals, and unsafe workplaces.
Air pollution alone is responsible for about 7 million deaths annually. Breathing in delicate particulate matter damages the lungs, heart, and brain, leading to diseases like asthma, heart attacks, strokes, and even cancer. And it doesn’t just harm those who live in big cities. Rural areas face environmental risks, such as pesticide exposure and poor water quality.
Climate change also adds pressure. Rising temperatures contribute to the spread of infectious diseases, heatstroke, and respiratory problems. Natural disasters like floods and wildfires displace communities, destroy healthcare infrastructure, and leave lasting mental health scars.
Urban design—or the lack of it—also shapes our everyday choices. Living near parks and green spaces reduces stress and boosts physical activity. Meanwhile, neighborhoods with high traffic, noise, and no safe places to walk or exercise increase the risk of chronic diseases.
The truth is, even the healthiest lifestyle struggles to overcome a toxic environment. Clean air, safe drinking water, green spaces, and climate resilience aren’t luxuries — they are fundamental public health needs.
Ignoring the environment means ignoring a massive driver of illness and death. Protecting it isn’t just about saving the planet — it’s about saving ourselves.
- hector pascua/picture: Image by Adina Voicu from Pixabay
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