| Climate change could bring malaria to UK, BMA says | Posted on 03/04/2008 in Industry related health news Malaria and other infectious diseases not usually experienced by the UK could reach its shores as a result of climate change, doctors have warned.
The British Medical Association (BMA) says frequent floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather conditions associated with climate change could have huge health impacts for the UK.
Flooding could increase the spread of infectious diseases and waters can become contaminated with substances including chemical waste, pesticides or inadequately treated human or animal sewage.
Higher temperatures and heavier rainfall could also increase the spread of infections like malaria.
The BMA's report warns that health inequalities - which the government is trying to reduce - will be exacerbated by climate change.
The doctors' group is calling for health professionals to take the lead on the issue and says they have the opportunity and responsibility to highlight the public health risks associated with climate change.
BMA head of science and ethics Dr Vivienne Nathanson said today's report includes practical measures doctors could take in order to reduce their negative impact on the environment.
"Given that it is the health service that often picks up the pieces when severe weather conditions strike, it makes sense for the NHS to invest in preventative healthcare and treatment for the health implications relating to climate change," she added.
"Also, as the biggest employer in the UK it needs to take urgent action to address its considerable carbon footprint."
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