Pharmaceuticals - Medical Association of Lower Saxony: Climate Change Endangers Wellbeing
"The ongoing climate crisis is a significant issue for our society as a whole," stated Martina Wenker, President of the Medical Chamber. Currently, we're witnessing immense struggle from allergies, extreme weather conditions, overheating, and air pollution that have become major concerns for the healthcare system. Furthermore, an uptick in diseases caused by new and existing pathogens has been observed. The repercussions of these circumstances include increased sleep disturbances and gastrointestinal infections, more frequent wound healing issues, and increased risk of heart irregularities due to mineral loss through sweating.
It's important to note how the effectiveness of numerous medications could be impacted by heat. For instance, blood pressure pills, diuretics, antibiotics, painkillers, and sleeping aids may be less effective or even potentially dangerous. Consequently, people who are prescribed these drugs are advised to consult their physician or a nurse concerning potential interactions and side effects.
During heatwave periods, higher levels of ozone and other pollutants are formed in the air, wreaking havoc on our lungs and airways. Additionally, the milder temperatures over the course of the year have led to a prolonged pollen season, which vexes allergy sufferers. Another alarming issue is the potential multiplication of disease-causing bacteria, as temperatures rise in Germany. Furthermore, carriers of viruses, such as ticks and mosquitoes, spread more extensively. Lastly, zoonoses - the transmission of infectious diseases between animals and humans and vice versa - are exacerbated by global warming.
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- In response to the escalating issue of climate change, the Medical Association of Lower Saxony, led by President Martina Wenker, has highlighted the potential threats to public health and wellbeing.
- Hanover, like other regions in Lower Saxony, has not been spared from the impact of climate change, experiencing increased allergies, extreme weather conditions, heatwaves, and air pollution.
- The pharmaceutical industry should pay close attention to climate change, as heat can impact the effectiveness of various medications such as blood pressure pills, diuretics, antibiotics, painkillers, and sleeping aids.
- To ensure the health and safety of individuals taking these medications during climate change-induced heatwaves, it is essential to consult healthcare professionals to discuss potential interactions and side effects.
- The Medical Association of Lower Saxony, under the leadership of Martina Wenker, is advocating for preventive measures like heat protection guidance, to lessen the risks of climate change-related health concerns like sleep disturbances, gastrointestinal infections, and heart irregularities.
