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Research Article: Barriers to climate change and health research in India: a qualitative study

Date Published: 2023-10-11

Abstract:
Objectives Almost a quarter of the global burden of disease and mortalities is attributable to environmental causes, the magnitude of which is projected to increase in the near future. However, in many low- and middle-income settings, there remains a large gap in the synthesis of evidence on climate-sensitive health outcomes. In India, now the world’s most populous country, little remains known about the impacts of climate change on various health outcomes. The objective of this study is to better understand the challenges faced in conducting climate change and health research in Puducherry, India. Design and setting In this study, we employed key informant interviews to deepen the understanding of the perceived research barriers in Puducherry. The findings were analysed using data-driven qualitative thematic analysis to elaborate the major perceived barriers to conducting environmental health research. Participants This study was conducted among 16 public health professionals, including medical researchers, and professionals involved in environmental policies and planning in Puducherry. Results We identify three key barriers faced by public health professionals as key stakeholders, namely: (1) political and institutional barriers; (2) education and awareness barriers; and (3) technical research barriers. We show there is a need, from the professionals’ perspective, to improve community and political awareness on climate change and health; strengthen technical research capacity and collaboration among researchers; and strengthen health surveillance, resource allocation and access to health data for research. Conclusion Evidence informed policies and interventions are a key element in the adaptation response for countries. In the context of the paucity of data on environmental health from India, despite recognised climate change related health vulnerabilities, these findings could contribute to the development and improvement of relevant interventions conducive to a strong research environment.

Introduction:
An ever-growing body of research has irrefutably shown the global health impacts of climate change through both direct and indirect exposure pathways. 1 2 Multiple risk and vulnerability factors determine the population resilience and adaptive capacity, from sociopolitical, demographic and biological factors to infrastructure, urban planning, health information systems and health workforce. 2 3 Given the regional variations in climate systems, the health impacts of climate change differ between and within…

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