Who Is at Risk of Climate Change?


July 13, 2018

We often hear the words “climate change” but how well do we know about it? Climate change refers to the change in the Earth’s temperature which greatly affects the weather in a certain place. For example, the amount of rain this year is different from the previous year or the temperature is higher today than that of yesterday. These changes may sound simple, but the effect is severe.

There are factors that can change the Earth’s climate - the eruption of a volcano, factories that burn fuel, people who burn trash, drive their cars, use of air-conditioning unit in their homes and a lot more. These bring gases into the air causing the air to heat up. When this happens, the climate in that place changes.

Are we at risk of climate change? The answer is, “Yes”. The changes in the temperature may intensify a weather event, unusual rise of sea levels, worsen air pollution, damage natural crops and marine life. These threaten our health by affecting the following:


  1. The air we breathe - the power plants, volcanoes, forest fire or car exhaust worsen the quality of air that we breathe in. These increase our risk of having respiratory problems, such as asthma, and cardiovascular diseases.  


  1. The food we eat - the presence of high carbon dioxide in the atmosphere may affect our food as it lowers down the levels of protein and minerals in crops such as: rice, wheat and potatoes.

    Bacteria grow faster in warm environment while higher air temperature increases bacteria-related food poisoning and salmonella, so it is always safe to be extra careful when preparing food.


  1. The water we drink - the flood and drought may reduce the availability of safe and clean drinking water thus increasing the risk of stomach and intestinal illnesses.


With all the risks mentioned above, what can we do about climate change?


Start from our home by turning off the lights when not in use and lessen the use of air-conditioners especially during rainy season.


Opt to walk or ride a bicycle if our home is near our workplace otherwise share a ride with friends or co-workers.


Stay up-to-date by reading and watching news about climate change.
It also helps ease our minds if we are prepared by getting a health protection for our whole family. Hospital Income Benefit Plan is for people from 20-64 years old. This plan provides financial cash assistance during hospital confinement, when diagnosed with dread disease or should we need to recuperate for a long period of time. For as low as Php175 per month, our family’s protection is guaranteed.



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