Likely Health Impacts of Climate Change in Guyana: A Systematic Review
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Asian Institute of Research, Journal Publication, Journal Academics, Education Journal, Asian Institute
Asian Institute of Research, Journal Publication, Journal Academics, Education Journal, Asian Institute

Journal of Health and Medical Sciences

ISSN 2622-7258

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doi
open access

Published: 22 November 2018

Likely Health Impacts of Climate Change in Guyana: A Systematic Review

Patrick R. Saunders-Hastings, Nadine Overhoff, Raywat Deonandan

University of Ottawa, Canada

journal of social and political sciences
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doi

10.31014/aior.1994.01.01.6

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Abstract

As anthropogenic inputs continue to drive climate change towards a "tipping point" of increasingly severe consequences, associated research has become more important than ever. Even if mitigation efforts are successful in slowing, or even halting, climate change progression, changes have already been triggered that will be felt for decades; the health impacts of these changes will be felt in most populations around the world and will threaten the well-being of billions. Further, it has been suggested that these impacts will be experienced differently, especially depending on geography. As such, it is crucial for location-specific analysis of the potential consequences of climate change to take place. This study constitutes a systematic review of the health consequences that can be expected in Guyana specifically, the results of which are of some relevance to Latin American more generally. Relevant documents selected for full review underwent quantitative and qualitative data analysis. From this analysis, six thematic categories emerged: i) dengue and malaria, ii) other infections, iii) flooding and waterborne diseases, iv) food and water shortages, v) respiratory issues, and vi) natural disasters. These represent the most likely and most severe health consequences that may be exacerbated by climate change impacts in Guyana. Despite these insights, a knowledge and research gap in this field is evident, and a call is made for further research and policy action to better understand and prepare for the upcoming challenges climate change will present.

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