Effects of Land Degradation and Drought on Health: UNCCD

Health Hazards of Soil Deterioration and Aridity

Increase in Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases: The policy brief underscores the extensive health impacts linked to environmental stress:

Water-related illnesses: Cholera, trachoma, scabies, eye inflammation.

Vector-transmitted illnesses: Malaria and additional infections carried by mosquitoes.

Respiratory illnesses: Caused by dust storms and forest fires.

Cardiovascular issues: High blood pressure, myocardial infarctions, cerebrovascular accidents.

Nutritional issues: Food insecurity leading to malnutrition and stunted growth.

The "One Health" Approach and UN Recommendations

As acknowledged by the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), the policy brief advocates for the One Health Approach, highlighting the interconnectedness of ecosystem, animal, and human health. It consists of:

Integrated Planning and Policy: Coordinate activities between the health and environmental domains.

Encourage community resilience and gender parity.

Research and Capacity Building: Increase studies on how land degradation affects human health.

bolster regional adaptation and mitigation capabilities.

Mechanisms of Finance: Raise specific funds for the restoration of the land and health system.

Encourage the use of creative financial instruments to support sustainable land use.

Ecological Remedies: Make investments in water management, early warning systems, sustainable agriculture, and land restoration.