Climate changes, characterised by rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting ecosystems, has far-reaching implications for human health including neurological disorders. As our climate continues to change understanding its impact on neurological health becomes increasingly critical.

Climate changes can exacerbate neurological disorders or introduce new risks to brain health:

Impact of Heatwaves

One of the most direct effects of climate change is the increase in frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

• Worsening of Multiple Sclerosis (MS): According to Dr. Atul Prasad, Vice Chairman & HOD, Neurology, BLK – MAX Super Speciality Hospital, people with MS are particularly vulnerable to heat. Rising global temperatures can exacerbate MS symptoms, including fatigue, weakness, and cognitive issues (a phenomenon known as Uhthoff’s phenomenon).

• Stroke Risk: Dr. Prasad explains that higher temperatures and dehydration increase the risk of thrombotic events, potentially leading to higher rates of stroke.

• Neurodegenerative Diseases: Prolonged heat exposure can worsen symptoms in patients with Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders by causing fatigue and reducing motor performance, says Dr. Prasad.

Air Pollution and Neurotoxicity

Climate change often leads to increased air pollution levels, as warmer temperatures can intensify photochemical reactions that produce pollutants like ozone. Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other pollutants can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, leading to inflammation and neurodegeneration.

• Cognitive Decline and Dementia: Dr. Prasad says that increased exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other air pollutants due to industrial emissions can accelerate cognitive decline and increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Children exposed to polluted environments may experience higher rates of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to Dr. Prasad.

• Parkinson’s Disease: Chronic exposure to air pollutants, especially those containing heavy metals, is associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s disease, he says.

As the climate warms, the geographic range of vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks expands, increasing the incidence of vector-borne diseases like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. Dr. Prasad explains that ticks carrying Lyme disease are expanding their habitats, increasing cases of neuroborreliosis. These diseases can lead to neurological symptoms and complications, including encephalitis and meningitis, which can have lasting impacts on cognitive and motor functions.

Dr. Prasad points out that climate change affects crop yields, potentially leading to malnutrition. A lack of essential nutrients like iodine, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids can impair brain development and exacerbate neurological disorders.

Climate change affecting food and water security can also lead to exposure to neurotoxic contaminants in food and water supplies, adds Dr. Prasad.

• Climate Anxiety: Chronic anxiety about climate change can affect mental health, leading to depression and anxiety disorders which may also involve neurological symptoms, says Dr. Prasad.

• Sleep Disorders: Rising nighttime temperatures disrupt sleep, increasing risks of cognitive impairment and neurological issues. Dr. Prasad notes that chronic stress is a known risk factor for neurological disorders, impacting learning, memory, and emotional regulation.

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Hurricanes, floods, and other extreme weather events can lead to an increase in head injuries, explains Dr. Prasad.

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Survivors of climate disasters often experience PTSD and other stress-related neurological disorders, according to Dr. Prasad.

• Loss of Access to Neurological Care: Disasters can disrupt healthcare services, delaying treatment for stroke, epilepsy, or other acute neurological conditions, highlights Dr. Prasad.

Addressing the neurological impacts of climate change requires a multi-faceted approach, including improving air quality, enhancing healthcare systems, and promoting public awareness of the risks associated with climate change. Dr. Atul Prasad says that research into climate-resilient healthcare practices and policies is essential to mitigate these adverse effects.

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