Welcome to our IELTS Reading practice session focused on the critical topic of “How climate change affects health.” As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve prepared a comprehensive reading test that mimics the actual IELTS exam structure. This practice will not only enhance your reading skills but also provide valuable insights into the global issue of climate change and its impact on human health.
Introduction to the IELTS Reading Test
The IELTS Reading test consists of three passages of increasing difficulty. Today’s practice focuses on how climate change affects health, a topic that frequently appears in IELTS exams due to its global significance. Remember, you have 60 minutes to complete all three sections, so manage your time wisely.
Passage 1 – Easy Text
The Broad Impact of Climate Change on Health
Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it’s a significant public health concern. As global temperatures rise and weather patterns become more extreme, the impact on human health becomes increasingly evident. From direct effects like heat-related illnesses to indirect consequences such as changes in disease patterns, climate change is reshaping the landscape of global health.
One of the most immediate health effects of climate change is the increase in heat-related illnesses. As heatwaves become more frequent and intense, cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke are on the rise, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. In urban areas, the “heat island effect” exacerbates these risks, as concrete and asphalt retain heat, making cities significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas.
Moreover, climate change is altering the distribution of many infectious diseases. Warmer temperatures and changing rainfall patterns create new habitats for disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes and ticks. This shift has led to the spread of diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease into areas where they were previously uncommon. The impact of climate change on the spread of diseases is a growing concern for health professionals worldwide.
Air quality is another crucial health factor affected by climate change. Higher temperatures contribute to increased levels of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. This poor air quality can exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, more frequent wildfires, fueled by drier conditions, release harmful particulate matter into the air, further compromising respiratory health.
The impact of climate change on mental health is an often-overlooked aspect. Extreme weather events like floods, hurricanes, and droughts can lead to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and trauma, all of which contribute to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
As climate change continues to evolve, its effects on human health are likely to become more pronounced and diverse. Understanding these impacts is crucial for developing effective strategies to protect public health in a changing world.
Questions 1-5
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
Write:
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
- Climate change only affects the environment and not human health.
- Heat-related illnesses are increasing due to more frequent and intense heatwaves.
- The “heat island effect” makes rural areas warmer than cities.
- Climate change is causing infectious diseases to spread to new areas.
- Mental health is unaffected by climate change.
Questions 6-10
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
- Climate change is altering the ___ of many infectious diseases.
- ___ and ticks are examples of disease-carrying insects affected by climate change.
- Higher temperatures contribute to increased levels of ___, a key component of smog.
- More frequent wildfires release harmful ___ into the air.
- Extreme weather events can lead to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and ___.
Passage 2 – Medium Text
Climate Change and Food Security: A Growing Health Concern
The relationship between climate change and food security is complex and multifaceted, with significant implications for global health. As the Earth’s climate systems undergo rapid changes, the ability to produce and distribute food is facing unprecedented challenges. These challenges not only threaten the quantity and quality of food available but also have far-reaching consequences for human nutrition and overall health.
One of the primary ways climate change affects food security is through its impact on crop yields. Rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves can significantly reduce agricultural productivity. For instance, a study published in the journal “Nature” found that for each degree Celsius increase in global mean temperature, wheat yields could decline by 6%, rice yields by 3.2%, and maize yields by 7.4% on average. These reductions in staple crop yields could lead to widespread food shortages, particularly in vulnerable regions already struggling with food insecurity.
Moreover, climate change is affecting the nutritional value of foods. Elevated levels of atmospheric CO2 have been shown to reduce the protein, zinc, and iron content of crops such as wheat, rice, and legumes. This phenomenon, known as “nutrient dilution,” could exacerbate existing malnutrition problems, especially in developing countries where these crops form a significant part of the diet. The impact of climate change on seasonal farming practices further compounds these nutritional challenges, as traditional growing seasons and crop varieties may no longer be viable in changing climatic conditions.
The effects of climate change on food security extend beyond crop production to include impacts on livestock and fisheries. Warmer temperatures and changes in precipitation can stress animals, reducing meat and dairy production. In aquatic systems, warming waters and ocean acidification threaten fish populations, a crucial source of protein for many coastal communities. The loss of these food sources not only affects nutrition but also the livelihoods of millions who depend on agriculture and fishing.
Food safety is another critical aspect of food security impacted by climate change. Warmer temperatures can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses by promoting the growth of pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli. Additionally, climate-related disruptions to food supply chains can lead to improper food storage and handling, further increasing the risk of contamination.
The global nature of food systems means that climate impacts in one region can have far-reaching consequences. For example, droughts or floods in major food-producing countries can lead to price spikes and food shortages in import-dependent nations thousands of miles away. This interconnectedness highlights the need for global cooperation in addressing climate change and its impacts on food security.
Adapting food systems to climate change is crucial for maintaining global health. Strategies include developing drought-resistant crop varieties, improving irrigation efficiency, diversifying food sources, and strengthening food distribution networks. Additionally, reducing food waste and shifting towards more sustainable, climate-resilient agricultural practices can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on food security.
As climate change continues to evolve, its effects on food security and, consequently, on human health are likely to become more pronounced. Understanding and addressing these challenges is essential for ensuring a healthy, well-nourished global population in the face of a changing climate.
Questions 11-14
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
-
According to the passage, climate change affects food security primarily by:
A) Increasing food prices globally
B) Reducing crop yields and agricultural productivity
C) Changing consumer food preferences
D) Altering food transportation methods -
The study mentioned in the passage suggests that for each degree Celsius increase in global mean temperature:
A) Wheat yields decrease the most
B) Rice yields decrease the most
C) Maize yields decrease the most
D) All crop yields decrease equally -
The phenomenon of “nutrient dilution” refers to:
A) The dilution of nutrients in soil due to excessive rainfall
B) The reduction of nutritional value in crops due to elevated CO2 levels
C) The loss of nutrients during food processing
D) The decreased absorption of nutrients by plants in warmer temperatures -
The passage suggests that the impact of climate change on food security:
A) Only affects developing countries
B) Is limited to crop production
C) Has far-reaching global consequences
D) Can be easily mitigated with current technology
Questions 15-19
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Climate change affects food security in multiple ways, including reducing crop yields and altering the 15) of foods. This can lead to widespread 16), particularly in vulnerable regions. The impact extends to livestock and fisheries, with warmer temperatures stressing animals and reducing 17) production. Climate change also affects food safety, as higher temperatures can promote the growth of 18) like Salmonella. The global nature of food systems means that climate impacts in one region can have 19)___ in distant countries, highlighting the need for global cooperation.
Question 20
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
- Which of the following is NOT mentioned as a strategy for adapting food systems to climate change?
A) Developing drought-resistant crops
B) Improving irrigation efficiency
C) Increasing the use of chemical fertilizers
D) Reducing food waste
Passage 3 – Hard Text
The Cascading Effects of Climate Change on Global Public Health Systems
The intricate relationship between climate change and public health systems is becoming increasingly apparent as the global climate crisis intensifies. While direct health impacts such as heat-related illnesses and the spread of infectious diseases are well-documented, the cascading effects on health systems themselves present a complex challenge that requires urgent attention and innovative solutions.
Climate change acts as a “threat multiplier” for public health, exacerbating existing health challenges and creating new ones. This phenomenon puts unprecedented strain on health systems worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where infrastructure and resources are often already stretched thin. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that between 2030 and 2050, climate change is expected to cause approximately 250,000 additional deaths per year from malnutrition, malaria, diarrhea, and heat stress alone. This projection underscores the urgent need for health systems to adapt and strengthen their capacity to respond to climate-related health threats.
One of the primary ways climate change impacts health systems is through the increased frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Hurricanes, floods, and wildfires can cause immediate devastation to health infrastructure, destroying hospitals, clinics, and supply chains. For instance, Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico in 2017 led to the closure of two-thirds of the island’s hospitals and severe disruptions to pharmaceutical supply chains, affecting not just local populations but also global supplies of certain medications. Such events highlight the vulnerability of health infrastructure to climate-related disasters and the need for resilient, climate-proof health facilities.
Moreover, climate change is altering the geographical distribution and seasonality of diseases, requiring health systems to adapt their surveillance, prevention, and treatment strategies. Vector-borne diseases like dengue, Zika, and Lyme disease are expanding into new areas as temperatures rise and ecosystems shift. This expansion necessitates the reallocation of resources and the retraining of healthcare professionals to diagnose and treat conditions that may have been previously uncommon in their regions. The impact of climate change on global public health systems is thus not only a matter of capacity but also of expertise and adaptability.
The burden of climate-sensitive health outcomes also disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, exacerbating health inequities. Elderly individuals, children, those with pre-existing health conditions, and communities in poverty are at higher risk of climate-related health impacts. This disparity challenges health systems to address not only the direct health effects of climate change but also the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to vulnerability.
Climate change also indirectly affects health systems through its impact on social determinants of health. For example, climate-induced migration can lead to overcrowding in urban areas, straining local health services and increasing the risk of communicable diseases. Similarly, food insecurity resulting from climate impacts on agriculture can lead to malnutrition and associated health problems, placing additional burdens on health systems.
The mental health implications of climate change present another significant challenge for health systems. Extreme weather events, displacement, and the existential threat of climate change itself contribute to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Many health systems, particularly in low-resource settings, are ill-equipped to handle this growing mental health burden, necessitating a reevaluation of mental health services and their integration into climate adaptation strategies.
Addressing the impacts of climate change on health systems requires a multifaceted approach. Strengthening health infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, enhancing disease surveillance systems, and improving the capacity for rapid response to emergencies are crucial steps. Additionally, integrating climate considerations into health policy and planning is essential for long-term resilience.
Innovative solutions are emerging to address these challenges. Telemedicine and mobile health technologies, for instance, can help maintain access to healthcare services during disruptions caused by extreme weather events. Predictive modeling using climate data can improve early warning systems for disease outbreaks and health emergencies, allowing for more proactive responses.
International cooperation plays a vital role in supporting health systems’ adaptation to climate change, particularly in vulnerable countries. The Paris Agreement on climate change recognizes the importance of health in climate action, calling for measures to protect human health and well-being from the impacts of climate change. Similarly, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a framework for addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change, health, and sustainable development.
As climate change continues to evolve, its impacts on health systems will likely become more pronounced and complex. Adapting to these challenges requires not only technical solutions but also a fundamental shift in how we conceptualize and prioritize health in the context of a changing climate. By recognizing the inextricable link between climate action and public health, we can work towards building more resilient, equitable, and sustainable health systems capable of meeting the unprecedented challenges of the 21st century.
Questions 21-26
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the passage for each answer.
Climate change acts as a 21) for public health, putting strain on health systems worldwide. The WHO estimates that between 2030 and 2050, climate change will cause approximately 22) additional deaths per year from various causes. Extreme weather events can damage health infrastructure, as seen in Puerto Rico where Hurricane Maria led to the closure of 23) of the island’s hospitals. Climate change is also altering the 24) of diseases, requiring health systems to adapt their strategies. The burden of climate-sensitive health outcomes disproportionately affects 25), exacerbating health inequities. Climate change also indirectly affects health systems through its impact on 26) of health, such as food security and migration patterns.
Questions 27-32
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the passage?
Write:
TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
- Climate change only affects physical health and not mental health.
- Telemedicine can help maintain access to healthcare services during extreme weather events.
- The Paris Agreement on climate change ignores the importance of health in climate action.
- Low- and middle-income countries are better equipped to handle climate-related health challenges.
- Climate-induced migration can lead to overcrowding in urban areas and strain local health services.
- Predictive modeling using climate data can improve early warning systems for disease outbreaks.
Questions 33-36
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D.
-
According to the passage, which of the following is NOT mentioned as a direct impact of climate change on health systems?
A) Destruction of hospitals and clinics
B) Alterations in disease distribution
C) Increased healthcare costs
D) Strain on mental health services -
The passage suggests that addressing the impacts of climate change on health systems requires:
A) Focusing solely on infrastructure improvements
B) Ignoring mental health implications
C) A multifaceted approach including policy changes
D) Reducing international cooperation -
The author’s tone regarding the future impacts of climate change on health systems can best be described as:
A) Optimistic
B) Neutral
C) Alarmist
D) Cautionary -
Which of the following best describes the main purpose of the passage?
A) To argue for increased funding for health systems
B) To explain the complex effects of climate change on global public health systems
C) To criticize current health policies related to climate change
D) To compare health systems in different countries
Questions 37-40
Complete the sentences below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
- The geographical distribution and ___ of diseases are being altered by climate change.
- Climate change exacerbates health inequities, with ___ being at higher risk of climate-related health impacts.
- The ___ of climate change present a significant challenge for health systems, contributing to increased rates of anxiety and depression.
- The