N.C. ready to lead in reducing heat risk
Extreme heat is a growing public health threat, hitting outdoor workers, older adults, and people in rural or low-income communities the hardest. Duke University School of Medicine researchers say North Carolina is well positioned to lead efforts to reduce that impact, building on the state’s Heat Health Alert System and the NC DETECT surveillance platform.
Extreme heat is rising. What are Duke researchers learning about its impacts?
At Duke University, researchers across medicine, engineering, environmental science and public policy are studying what rising global temperatures mean for human health, ecosystems, and communities.
From heat waves to air quality, Duke funds new research on climate health risks
With philanthropic support, Duke University aims to turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions for the growing health impacts of climate change.
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.
Where climate meets health: Duke researchers chart a path forward at ‘Big Idea’ symposium
Duke University School of Medicine hosted its first Climate and Health “Big Idea” Symposium on January 22, bringing together faculty and trainees from across campus to share ideas aimed at addressing the health impacts of climate change.
Climate Collaboration Symposium Explores Pathways to Resilient, Sustainable Health Systems
Health and climate are deeply intertwined. Both are central to families, communities, and economies. Yet, both are under pressure.
Duke receives $4.5 million from The Duke Endowment to fund initiative focused on climate and health
Through interdisciplinary research, community engagement, and data-driven strategies, the new Climate and Health Research Initiative (CHeRI) will unite efforts across Duke and advance efforts in the Duke University School of Medicine, Duke Global Health Institute, Nicholas School of the Environment, and the Nicholas Institute for Energy, Environment & Sustainability.
Healing After Natural Disasters
Duke experts are exploring how natural disasters and other extreme events affect mental and physical health.
PhD Student Focuses on Heat, Health, and Community
Elizabeth Rojo, a PhD candidate in Population Health, aims to develop interventions to protect vulnerable populations such as farm workers from the effects of extreme heat.
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.