Adapting to the effects of climate change on Inuit health

Am J Public Health. 2014 Jun;104 Suppl 3(Suppl 3):e9-17. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2013.301724. Epub 2014 Apr 22.

Abstract

Climate change will have far-reaching implications for Inuit health. Focusing on adaptation offers a proactive approach for managing climate-related health risks-one that views Inuit populations as active agents in planning and responding at household, community, and regional levels. Adaptation can direct attention to the root causes of climate vulnerability and emphasize the importance of traditional knowledge regarding environmental change and adaptive strategies. An evidence base on adaptation options and processes for Inuit regions is currently lacking, however, thus constraining climate policy development. In this article, we tackled this deficit, drawing upon our understanding of the determinants of health vulnerability to climate change in Canada to propose key considerations for adaptation decision-making in an Inuit context.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Arctic Regions
  • Canada
  • Climate Change*
  • Food Supply
  • Health Status*
  • Humans
  • Inuit*
  • Vulnerable Populations