Climate and Health News

How climate disasters threaten the health of incarcerated people

A new Duke University School of Medicine study reveals how climate disasters intensify the already harsh conditions faced by people who are incarcerated. Published in the journal, SSM - Qualitative Research in Health, the researchers examined how climate disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, and extreme heat, uniquely impact individuals who are incarcerated, especially in settings lacking basic protections.

Healing After Natural Disasters

Duke experts are exploring how natural disasters and other extreme events affect mental and physical health.

As the Planet Warms, Fungi Find a Way In

As global temperatures rise, fungi are evolving to survive in warmer environments—potentially breaching the human body’s natural thermal defenses. At a Duke University symposium, scientists warned that climate change may be fueling the emergence of heat-tolerant fungal pathogens, posing a growing threat to public health.

Climate Pathfinders: For Trish Dalapati, Medical Research is Personal

MD/PhD student Trisha Dalapati saw firsthand how climate affected health in the community in India where her family lives. At Duke, she's raising awareness of the links between climate and infectious disease through initiatives including a pilot course and a podcast.

The Fungal Fallout of Climate Disasters 

When Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina, it left more than flood damage—it created fertile ground for mold and fungus to growth. Now, a Duke University team is studying how post-disaster fungi could affect health and recovery in a warming world.