Special Feature 1 – Climate Change and Health Risks A chain reaction in the worsening of risk factors for lifestyle-related diseases

A variety of interconnected risk factors are involved in lifestyle-related diseases, and climate change further amplifies those risks. For example, people with diabetes mellitus (diabetes) are known to be more likely to develop several other lifestyle-related diseases, including cardiac disease, cerebrovascular disease, and kidney disease. When the impact of climate change is considered, these risk factors can intensify in a chain-reaction-like manner, accelerating the rise in lifestyle-related diseases. Additionally, reduced physical activity and sleep disturbances in extremely hot environments act as risk factors for cardiovascular disease and other conditions. We are now at a point where modifying our lifestyle has become essential.