Mapping climate change and health indicators

Overview

This review sheds light on how countries are measuring the health impacts of climate change. It examines the indicators countries are using in their vulnerability and adaptation (V&A) assessments, as well as in their Health National Adaptation Plans (HNAPs). The review analyzed 31 reports from 22 countries—15 V&As and 16 HNAPs—spanning all WHO regions. These documents, published by members of the Alliance for Transformative Action on Climate and Health (ATACH), were available on the ATACH website between January 2015 and November 2024.

The review found wide variation in how countries track climate-related health risks, though common patterns also emerged. Indicators were grouped into key areas linking climate change to health: hazards, exposures, vulnerabilities, health outcomes, impacts on health systems, future climate and health risks, and enabling factors such as policies and resources. In total, 3,880 indicators were recorded. After eliminating overlaps and merging similar ones, the researchers identified 1,684 unique indicators.

The findings suggest countries are making significant progress in tracking health risks from climate change. The review notes that a shared set of core indicators—developed in consultation with countries and experts—could help strengthen future assessments and adaptation planning worldwide.