In Asia, the growing recognition of the interconnectedness between climate change and public health is spurring action to strengthen resilience through prevention, preparedness, and collaboration. The Climate and Health in Asia report, authored by Forum for the Future and sponsored by AIA, highlights the toll rising temperatures, extreme weather, air pollution, and changing disease patterns are taking on health across the region.

Key facts include the unveiling of Singapore's first National Adaptation Plan, focusing on heat resilience, flood protection, and safeguarding food and water security. This plan underscores the growing understanding that adapting to climate change requires not only addressing environmental challenges but also protecting public health.

The report emphasizes the need to address less obvious climate-health risks, such as prolonged heat exposure exacerbating underlying health conditions, particularly among older adults and vulnerable populations. Rising temperatures also allow the Aedes mosquito to thrive, increasing the risk of diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. Mental health is another less visible consequence of climate change, with growing climate anxiety among younger generations.

Climate change is exposing vulnerabilities in healthcare systems, from hospitals and clinics to broader infrastructure. To adapt, resilience needs to be embedded into everyday life, from urban planning and public infrastructure to schools and workplaces. Communities and businesses are adapting through measures such as district cooling systems, reflective building materials, covered walkways, and adjusting work schedules to reduce heat exposure.

Collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, communities, businesses, and insurers is essential for strengthening resilience. Insurers can contribute by improving climate resilience within their organizations, helping people stay healthier and better prepared, strengthening healthcare systems, and supporting research and partnerships that advance climate-health resilience.

Financial protection and prevention can reinforce each other. For example, reducing financial barriers can encourage people to seek care earlier, while check-ups, screenings, and other preventive measures can identify health issues before they require more costly treatment. Technological innovations, such as digital health, data analytics, wearables, telehealth, apps, and Internet of Things sensors, can improve healthcare delivery and efficiency, further enhancing climate-health resilience.

This development represents a significant opportunity for insurers, healthcare providers, governments, and communities in Asia to collaborate and invest in prevention, preparedness, and resilience to build healthier and more resilient communities. The growing awareness of the climate-health connection offers a real opportunity to address these interconnected challenges and create a more sustainable, equitable, and efficient healthcare system in Asia.