Description:

Drought is a pervasive natural disaster with far-reaching consequences on the environment, economy, and public health. Drought events can cause issues with food and water security to other environmental degradations. Each of these changes can cause negative human health outcomes. As climate change will increase the prevalence and severity of drought events in the future, it is important to understand the current health threats associated to improve mitigation efforts.  This session seeks to explore the multifaceted relationship between drought and health, encouraging researchers to delve into topics such as policy development, mitigation strategies, and direct health impacts.

In recent decades, droughts have affected more individuals worldwide than any other type of natural disaster, leading to substantial health burdens. These events contribute to a variety of health issues, including malnutrition, waterborne and infectious diseases, respiratory and cardiovascular problems, and even mental health struggles, particularly in rural and farming communities. For instance, the 2012 pan-continental drought in the United States affected over 150 million people, while similar prolonged events in Central South America and Europe have underscored the urgent need for effective public health interventions.

This session will bring together researchers, public health officials, and policymakers to share the latest findings and insights on how drought influences health outcomes. We will cover a range of topics, including the direct and indirect health impacts of drought, the mechanisms linking drought to health, and strategies for reducing its adverse effects. The goal is to foster a comprehensive understanding of drought's health implications and to highlight innovative approaches to mitigate these impacts.

We invite submissions that address these themes, focusing on the integration of research findings into practical policy and mitigation efforts that can safeguard health against the backdrop of an increasingly arid world. Join us in a critical discussion that aims not only to dissect the challenges but also to envision and implement solutions that enhance resilience and health security in the face of drought.