Climate change and respiratory diseases: a 2020 perspective

<jats:sec> <jats:title>Purpose of review</jats:title> <jats:p>To present an overview of the impact of climate change upon human respiratory health.</jats:p> </jats:sec> <jats:sec> <jats:title>Recent findings</jats:title> <jats:p>Climate change involves two major types of change. First, there is overall progressive warming. Second, there is increased variability/unpredictability in weather patterns. Both types of change impact negatively upon human respiratory health. Worsening air quality and increased allergens can worsen existing disease. Climate-related changes in allergens and in vectors for infection can cause new disease. Redundant sophisticated studies have projected marked increases in respiratory morbidity and mortality throughout the world as a direct result of climate change. This article summarizes some of those studies.</jats:p> </jats:sec> <jats:sec> <jats:title>Summary</jats:title> <jats:p>The clarity of our vision with respect to the dramatic impact of climate change upon human respiratory health approaches 20/20. The data represent a mandate for change. Change needs to include international, national, and individual efforts.</jats:p> </jats:sec>