Overview of health considerations within National Adaptation Programmes of Action for climate change in least developed countries and small island states

摘要

Least developed countries and small island states have been receiving support from developed countries to prepare National Adaptation Programmes of Action (NAPAs) to address the impacts of climate change. Most of these plans date from around 2010. A review of health considerations within these plans was undertaken in 2010 focusing on three main aspects: identified health impacts; adaptation needs and proposed adaptation actions; and, the implementation framework. In 39 out of 41 (95%) NAPAs reviewed, health was considered to be one of the sectors on which climate change has an impact. However, only 23% (9/39) of these plans were found to be comprehensive in their health vulnerability assessment. In total, 73% (30/41) of the NAPAs include health interventions within adaptation needs and proposed actions, but only 27% (8/30) of these interventions were adequate. The total number of selected priority projects is 459 with just 50 (11%) projects focused on health. The total estimated cost of the priority projects is US$ 1 853 000 000 with only US$ 58 000 000 (3%) going to health projects. With few exceptions, the current consideration of public health interventions in NAPAs is unlikely to support the resilience processes and protect public health from the negative effects of climate change. The article ends with recommendations suggested to improve this situation.