Health systems globally must respond to climate-related health outcomes, beginning with integrating climate change mitigation into nursing curricula, nursing science and clinical practice (American Nurses Association, 2023; Delnat, 2025). A review by Roque et al. (2023) identified 10 primary health outcomes caused by climate change: infectious diseases (n=41); mortality (n=32); respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological conditions (n=23); health care system strain (n=16); mental health issues (n=13); pregnancy and birth-related concerns (n=11); nutritional deficiencies (n=9); skin diseases and allergies (n=8); occupational health injuries; and other conditions such as sleep disorders and arthritis (n=17).

Houston Methodist is in the Southern Great Plains region of the United States, an area prone to temperature extremes that contribute to drought, increased dust and reduced air quality. Since 2023, the Houston-Galveston metropolitan area has exceeded national ozone standards, affecting over 12 million people (CDC, 2024).

Climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable populations with heightened risks for rural communities, those along the Texas border, underserved populations, people with disabilities, Black, Indigenous, people of color (BIPOC) individuals, non-cisgender individuals, heterosexual men, immigrants, and the homeless (CDC, 2024). Temperatures above 86°F have been linked to mental health impacts, including increased anger, depression and difficulty concentrating (Charlson et al., 2021).

The World Health Organization (2023) has prioritized research on the connection between climate change and mental health. Temperature extremes (humidity, floods, heat, droughts, and heavy rain), changes in water supply, and food insecurity can all increase physical and psychological stress and anxiety (CDC, 2024; Charlson et al., 2021; Costello et al., 2019; WHO, 2023). Hospital admissions related to heat have been associated with various mental disorders, such as dementia, mood disorders, somatoform disorders, and neurological impairments, all of which can affect psychological development (Charlson et al., 2021).

Nurses play a vital role in addressing climate change. Their responsibilities include educating patients about symptoms of heat exhaustion, the importance of hydration and protection against mosquitoes. Nurses should also stay informed on global and public health threats (Morris, 2023). Health care systems can contribute by focusing on waste reduction and providing staff and patients with information about climate-related health risks.

Finally, nurses can advocate for policy changes that improve environmental health for all individuals (Costello et al., 2021; Morris, 2023). The health concerns caused by climate change are attracting political attention and have the potential to drive meaningful policy change.