“I have learned that you are never too small to make a difference” is a phrase that has deeply moved me. Greta Thunberg, at the tender age of just 15, decided that she wanted to change the world for the better and took to the streets. She envisioned the change and brought it forward. But to do that the most important thing is to identify the problem statement.
From the health sector to the education sector, there are flaws EVERYWHERE. And these flaws can only and only be identified through data collected. And trust me, there is zero lack of data. But the amount of people utilizing that data is also close to zero. This is bad. We can improve and take concrete actions in the right direction only and only when we learn from our past mistakes.
In the same way we have the data with us – it shows the impact, the outreach, DEFINES the problem statement, and to an extent also hints towards the solutions. All we need to do is tap into the potential of all these authentic public data sets, make it easy for the general public to understand and then take the small steps required.
Today, I want to do just that.
Challenge 1: Climate Change – The Urgent Crisis of Our Making
If we ever had to do a grand narrative of our planet’s history, we would see the countless of transformations that Earth has undergone, from ice age to becoming a lush-green planet, but nothing can be compared to one happening right now. The profound influence of humans has lead to a colossal problem – Climate Change.
Rise in global temperatures, erratic weather patterns, disappearing ice caps, biodiversity loss, catastrophic wildfires – all of it is this constant blaringly-obvious indication that we went wrong, are doing wrong, and will continue to be wrong unless action isn’t taken. This urgent crisis is because of the choices we made as a society and the only way we can solve it is if we take a decision as a society. It’s time to confront the stark reality that we hold both the responsibility and the power to address this monumental challenge before it’s too late.
To do this, it becomes imperative to first see the impact that our actions have on the world.
The graph shows the difference in global average surface temperature (in degrees Celsius), over a span of years. The rate of warming since 1981 has become twice as fast; there is a significant accumulation of heat. Although a 1.2 degrees difference might seem less, our Earth is big and hence it takes a massive amount of energy to raise the temperature. Each successive decade has been warmer than the previous. And its all because of us, humans.
Furthermore, a grand total of 39 countries have reported the highest temperature in this decade alone. Most countries are experiencing unprecedented high temperatures. Such accelerated increase does not only mean that you will sweat more but it has a more graver impact, or should I say impacts.
- Increase in wildfire:
The graph indicates a stark increase in the density of active wildfires globally from 2003 to 2022. This rise is inextricably linked to the uptick in global temperatures, an emblematic consequence of climate change.
The above graphs uses the Palmer Drought Severity Index to showcase how the drought severity has just increased and become more severe as the years pass by due to the rise in temperature. It is estimated that, over the past decade, droughts were 15 times more lethal in highly vulnerable regions than in regions with low vulnerability.
These regions who are more prone to drought have reduced moisture and this makes vegetation more flammable due to which there is an increase in wildfires. The frequency and intensity of these fires not only devastate ecosystems, releasing vast amounts of carbon dioxide, but also pose severe risks to human life, property, and air quality.
The proliferation of wildfires we observe today is a direct reflection of the broader climatic shifts undermining the stability of our environmental systems. It’s a call to action, highlighting the urgency for climate adaptation and mitigation strategies.
2. Increase in wildfire:
As temperatures CLIMB, habitats SHRINK
High temperatures are not only causing discomfort for humans but are also reshaping the intricate web of life on our planet.
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, and they’re exacting a heavy toll on biodiversity. When extreme heat strikes, ecosystems suffer. For instance, coral reefs, often called the rainforests of the sea, are especially vulnerable. Rising sea temperatures stress coral polyps, causing coral bleaching and leading to the decline of these vibrant underwater ecosystems.
And the worst part? They are becoming more frequent and intense. In any given year between 2011 and 2020, approximately 60% of the surface of the ocean experienced a heatwave. And, as seen below, the ocean heat content is also on a rise.
While this adversely effects the marine population, an increase in global temperature also impacts the land animals by snatching away their homes. Heatwaves that leads to drought and then eventually wildfires has a direct effect on these animals.
At a 1.5°C increase, 4% of our mammal friends may need to pack their bags, and by 3°C, a staggering 41% could be flipping through real estate listings for new habitats. This loss of habitat due to climate change is a significant driver of biodiversity decline, underscoring the urgency of preserving our planet’s temperature within safe limits to protect ecosystems and the myriad of species that depend on them.
3. Faster rate of Melting:
Our world is undergoing a radical climate makeover, and the latest beauty trend for Earth seems to be ‘less is more’—less ice, that is.
Glaciers, those immense rivers of ice, have been an integral part of our planet for millions of years. However, the relentless rise in global temperatures is causing them to melt at an unprecedented rate. Glaciers accumulate snow and ice over time, and when the balance between accumulation and melting tips in favor of the latter, the glacier begins to retreat.
Glaciers have thinned by an annual average of approximately 1m from 2011 to 2020 – truly an unprecedented loss. Greenland and Antarctica alone have lost more than 38% of ice. And if that wasn’t alarming enough, the Arctic has decided to join the trend, with a 30% drop in the seasonal minimum ice extent.
The consequences of melting glaciers extend far beyond their majestic icy landscapes. One of the most pressing concerns is the impact on sea levels. As glaciers melt, the freshwater stored within them is released into the ocean, causing sea levels to rise.
The threat posed by rising sea levels is not confined to coastal communities alone. Increased sea levels can result in coastal erosion, higher storm surges, and saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources. Vulnerable populations around the world are at risk of displacement, loss of property, and livelihoods due to these changes.
Addressing this issue requires global cooperation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, transition to cleaner energy sources, and adapt to the changes that are already underway. The preservation of these frozen giants is not only essential for the health of our planet but also for the well-being of future generations who will inherit the legacy of our actions, or inaction, in the face of this monumental challenge.
So what’s the moral of this chilly tale? It’s high time we cool down our act and give glaciers a break, literally. Because if we don’t, we might just find ourselves on thin ice, with Mother Nature having the last laugh.
Global Health Issues and Pandemic:
In the field of global health, medical and healthcare advancements have made significant strides in combating diseases, but disparities and new threats remain persistent concerns. Recent statistical data presents a complex picture of progress and ongoing struggles. We observe fluctuations in under-five mortality rates, gradual reductions in maternal deaths, and unpredictable trends in infectious diseases like malaria. The advent of COVID-19 disrupted these trends, serving as a stark reminder that health issues are a global concern that continually evolves. In this article, we will examine these trends through the lens of data to better understand the global health landscape.
In the two decades leading up to the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world made remarkable strides in the realm of healthcare. We have witnessed a mix of achievements and challenges over time. Between 2000 and 2019, global life expectancy witnessed a substantial increase, rising from 67 to 73 years. Additionally, enhanced access to healthcare services and advancements in the prevention and treatment of noncommunicable diseases played pivotal roles in this progress.
Nevertheless, disparities and new threats remain persistent concerns. Even prior to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, signs of slowing and stagnation in various global health indicators had become apparent, starting around 2015. The pandemic further exacerbated these challenges, straining healthcare systems and severely disrupting essential health services, reminding us that health issues are a global concern that continually evolves. In this article, we will examine these trends through the lens of data to better understand the global health landscape.
In the delicate early years of life, the balance between survival and loss is poignant. Despite a global under-five mortality rate of 38 deaths per 1000 live births, the disparity among regions is stark, with Africa facing a dire rate of 72. Yet, the narrative isn’t solely one of despair. The fact that child survival drives human development is a beacon of progress, pushing global life expectancy higher over the past 75 years.
However, the loss of 5 million children before their fifth birthday in 2021, particularly the 47% of them in their first month, is a tragedy that echoes loudly across continents. These numbers aren’t just statistics; they represent lives that could have flourished with access to essential health interventions.
Our call to action is clear: ramp up quality life-saving measures, focus on skilled delivery, postnatal care, and adequate nutrition. Vaccinations and treatments for childhood diseases must be more accessible. The future is built on the health of our children, and the challenge to nurture this is both immense and critical. It’s a challenge that, if met, can transform the landscape of global health.
The fight for maternal health is a tale of uneven progress across the globe. From 2000 to 2020, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) has seen declines, but not uniformly. As the graph reflects, the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asia, and Africa regions have experienced slower reductions, leaving countless women vulnerable. Access to contraception, safe legal abortion services, and comprehensive post-abortion care are foundational in preventing maternal deaths. Furthermore, ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted and every birth is safe through quality care and skilled attendance is crucial. With the right interventions, the promise of safer motherhood can become a widespread reality.
As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe, it brought unprecedented challenges to public health and exposed deep disparities within and between nations. The figures are grim: millions of deaths reported worldwide, with the Americas and Europe bearing a heavy toll. But beyond these stark numbers lies a cascade of secondary impacts—disruptions to routine healthcare services, setbacks in chronic disease management, and a mental health crisis exacerbated by social isolation.
The pandemic’s ripple effect has been profound, delaying critical non-COVID medical procedures and vaccinations, and widening the gap in health equity. The underprivileged and marginalized have borne the brunt of this, with limited access to care and higher susceptibility to the disease. The hard-fought gains in reducing under-five mortality rates and improving maternal health have slowed, challenging the global commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
As we emerge into a post-pandemic world, the urgency to accelerate progress is palpable. To reach the SDGs, the world must now move three times faster, fortifying health systems, ensuring equitable access to healthcare, and bolstering preparedness for future health emergencies. Only with a renewed, collective resolve can we hope to achieve a healthier, more resilient global community.
Food And Water Security
In our interconnected world, the nexus of food, water, and energy presents a pivotal challenge for sustainability and public health. The Global Hunger Index (GHI) reveals a troubling disparity: while many nations have made progress, places like Somalia remain in the throes of severe hunger. Analysing trends from 2000 to 2021, we see shifts in hunger patterns.
Hunger Index Distribution Plot between 2000 and 2001
Left: Extremely Alarming (>=50) Hunger Index Countries in 2000, Right: Extremely Alarming (>=50) Hunger Index Countries in 2021
The state of child nutrition across the globe is a pressing issue, pivotal to the growth and development of children and, by extension, the future of societies worldwide. The graph below illustrates a significant aspect of child nutrition, focusing on three critical conditions: stunting, wasting, and overweight among children under five years of age, over a span of two decades from 2000 to 2022.
Stunting, a result of prolonged undernutrition, is characterized by low height for age. Wasting, depicted by low weight for height, is an indication of recent and severe weight loss, often due to acute food shortages or disease. Being overweight, on the other hand, is a condition of excess body weight for height and is increasingly common even in low- and middle-income countries, contributing to a different set of health challenges, including the early onset of chronic diseases.
In 2000, the global prevalence of stunting in children under five was 33.0%, which has commendably decreased to 22.3% by 2022. Similarly, the number of children affected by stunting has dropped from 204.2 million in 2000 to 148.1 million in 2022. This indicates substantial progress, likely due to concerted global health initiatives, improved maternal health, better feeding practices, and enhanced socio-economic conditions.
However, the graph also shows a slight increase in the number of children who are overweight, from 5.3% in 2000 to 5.6% in 2022. Wasting remains a less prevalent but still critical issue, with a slight reduction from 6.8% in 2000 to 5.6% in 2022.
The seriousness of malnutrition cannot be overstated. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. First, there is a need for sustained investment in nutrition-specific interventions, such as breastfeeding promotion, micronutrient supplementation, and treatment of severe malnutrition. Second, nutrition-sensitive strategies must be employed, including poverty reduction, education, and agricultural policies that ensure food security and diversity. Policies that regulate food marketing, especially to children, alongside urban planning that encourages physical activity, are also critical.
Water Safety and Scarcity: A Global Health Imperative
Water is the cornerstone of life, vital for human health and well-being. However, its safety and availability are increasingly becoming a global concern. The World Health Organization (WHO) underscores the necessity of safe and readily available water for public health across various uses, including drinking, domestic needs, food production, and recreation. Unfortunately, the distribution and potability of water resources are far from uniform, as shown in recent data visualizations.
The State of Water Quality
Recent statistics paint a picture of the water quality challenges we face. Analysis of pH levels in water indicates that while most drinking water falls within the acceptable range of 6.5 to 8.5, variations exist that can affect water’s acidity and, by extension, its potability and suitability for use. pH levels are a fundamental indicator of water’s acid-base balance and are influenced by factors such as carbon dioxide concentration and temperature.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) are another critical measure, encompassing inorganic salts and small amounts of organic matter that dissolve in water. The acceptable TDS level for drinking water typically does not exceed 500 ppm (parts per million), yet the data shows numerous instances where this threshold is surpassed, potentially compromising the water’s taste, health aspects, and suitability for domestic use.
Chloramines, utilized since the 1930s to disinfect water, ensure safer water reaches consumers through extended disinfection as water travels through pipes. They are formed when ammonia is added to chlorine, and while effective, their presence must be carefully managed to maintain safety standards.
Sulfates, naturally occurring in most waters, come from various sources, including the oxidation of sulfite ores and industrial wastes. When sulfate concentrations in drinking water are high, they can combine with calcium and magnesium to have a laxative effect, which is undesirable and potentially harmful.
Global Impact and Water Scarcity
The disparity in water quality and availability has far-reaching consequences. Water scarcity affects more than 40% of the global population, a number that is projected to rise. It exacerbates issues of poverty and inequality and hampers economic growth and health outcomes. Contaminated water and inadequate sanitation link directly to diseases such as cholera, diarrhea, dysentery, hepatitis A, typhoid, and polio. The risks are particularly pronounced in healthcare facilities lacking proper water, sanitation, and hygiene services, with infection rates soaring, especially in low-income countries.
In areas where water quality is poor or access is limited, the effects on health can be severe. Waterborne illnesses can lead to increased mortality rates, particularly among children and the immunocompromised. Additionally, time spent collecting water or money spent on medical treatment for water-related illnesses can reduce families’ ability to work or go to school, perpetuating cycles of poverty.
We must act collectively and decisively.
- Support Water Sustainability Initiatives: Donate to organizations working on water projects, especially in developing countries.
- Reduce Water Waste: Practice water conservation at home and in your community.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Encourage lawmakers to prioritize water safety and sustainability.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself and others about water-related issues and support scientific research in this field.
The global impact of water issues demands our immediate attention. By taking informed actions, we can ensure water safety and availability for all, thereby safeguarding our collective future.
