The Impacts of Climate Change on Global Health: An IELTS Writing Guide

“The Effects Of Climate Change On Global Health” is a topic frequently appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. This signifies the growing global concern surrounding this issue. Understanding the keywords and their related terms is crucial for achieving a high band score.

Keywords:

• Climate change
• Global health
• Impacts/Effects

LSI Keywords:

• Global warming
• Greenhouse gases
• Pollution
• Heatwaves
• Natural disasters
• Infectious diseases
• Malnutrition
• Healthcare systems

Common User Queries:

• How does climate change affect human health?
• What are the biggest threats to global health from climate change?
• What can we do to mitigate the health risks of climate change?

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

Here are some potential IELTS Writing Task 2 questions related to this topic:

1. It is argued that climate change is the biggest threat to global health in the 21st century. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
2. Climate change is leading to an increase in extreme weather events, which can have devastating effects on human health. What are some of the ways in which we can prepare for and mitigate these effects?
3. Governments and individuals must work together to address the health impacts of climate change. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Sample Essay: Climate Change – The Biggest Threat to Global Health?

Let’s delve into a model essay responding to the first question:

Question: It is argued that climate change is the biggest threat to global health in the 21st century. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Model Essay:

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a major challenge of our time, with far-reaching consequences for the planet and its inhabitants. One of the most alarming aspects of this global phenomenon is its potential to severely impact human health. While other pressing health concerns exist, I firmly believe that climate change poses the most significant threat to global health in the 21st century.

Firstly, the escalating global temperatures are contributing to more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a direct threat to human health, leading to heatstroke, dehydration, and cardiovascular complications, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Furthermore, climate change exacerbates air pollution by increasing the concentration of harmful pollutants, leading to respiratory illnesses such as asthma and lung cancer.

Secondly, the changing climate patterns are disrupting ecosystems and increasing the prevalence of infectious diseases. As temperatures rise and rainfall patterns shift, disease vectors like mosquitoes expand their ranges, bringing diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus to new populations. This not only increases the burden on healthcare systems but also poses a significant threat to global health security.

Climate Change Impact on Health

However, some argue that other health challenges, such as pandemics or non-communicable diseases, are equally or even more pressing. While these concerns are undoubtedly significant, the pervasive and long-term impacts of climate change on various aspects of human health make it a more formidable threat. Its effects are multifaceted, affecting air and water quality, food security, and the spread of infectious diseases, thereby jeopardizing the well-being of current and future generations.

In conclusion, while other health challenges exist, the escalating global temperatures, the rise of extreme weather events, and the spread of infectious diseases make climate change the most significant threat to global health in the 21st century. Addressing this challenge requires a concerted global effort to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, adapt to the changing climate, and strengthen healthcare systems to cope with the growing health burden.

Word Count: 320 words

Writing Tips

• Structure: Follow a clear essay structure (introduction, body paragraphs, conclusion) with logical transitions.
• Vocabulary: Use topic-specific vocabulary and synonyms to avoid repetition.
• Grammar: Pay close attention to grammar accuracy, particularly verb tenses and subject-verb agreement.
• Examples: Provide specific examples to support your arguments.
• Perspective: Clearly state your opinion and support it with well-reasoned arguments.

Useful Vocabulary

1. Exacerbate (verb): /ɪɡˈzæs.ə.beɪt/ – to make something worse
2. Vulnerable (adjective): /ˈvʌl.nər.ə.bəl/ – weak and easily hurt physically or emotionally
3. Prevalence (noun): /ˈprev.əl.əns/ – the fact that something is very common or happens often
4. Disease vectors (noun): /dɪˈziːz ˈvek.tərz/ – living organisms that can transmit infectious diseases
5. Multifaceted (adjective): /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/ – having many different parts or aspects

Conclusion

“The effects of climate change on global health” is a complex and significant issue with a high chance of appearing in your IELTS Writing Task 2. By familiarizing yourself with the relevant vocabulary, understanding the potential questions, and practicing your writing skills, you can confidently approach this topic and achieve your desired band score. Remember to stay updated on current events and scientific findings related to climate change and its impact on health, as this will provide you with valuable insights and examples to incorporate into your essays.