Climate Change—An Exacerbator of Human Health Problems in Coastal Areas

Climate change (CC) has continued to have a devastating effect on the earth’s sustainability. The impact on the environment, economy and society has continued to gain significant attention among countries worldwide. Coastal areas are not exempted from the adverse effect of CC. This study, therefore, assessed the impact of CC on human health in coastal cities. This was done to showcase the determinantal effect of man's activities in the ecosystem and how these activities are now impacting negatively on the health of individuals living in coastal cities. The study adopted an interpretivist approach, using the review of extant literature to unearth the key health issues associated with CC, particularly in coastal areas. The study found through a scientometric that CC has an impact on (1) water resources and management, (2) vulnerability and health risk of humans due to rising sea levels, (3) environmental pollution impacting on human health, (4) urban growth, and (5) public health. With specific attention to people's health in coastal areas, CC can be detrimental to human health in terms of the emergence of water and vector-borne diseases, respiratory diseases and allergies, mental health, loss of life and injury, and other health issues.