editorial · Environmental Health Insights
In Borno State, Nigeria, flooding driven by climate change has created a severe public health emergency by accelerating the spread of water-related illnesses and worsening malnutrition. Floodwaters disrupt sanitation and clean water infrastructure, fostering conditions that encourage diseases such as malaria, cholera, and diarrhoeal conditions. Concurrently, the displacement of populations and the destruction of agricultural systems intensify local food insecurity. The situation is further aggravated by persistent regional conflicts, which obstruct efforts to adapt to climate change and mitigate its effects. Addressing these compound challenges requires targeted interventions, resilient climate adaptation programmes, and the reinforcement of local healthcare systems to alleviate the widespread socio-economic and health burdens placed on vulnerable communities.
The compounding effects of flooding, conflict, and agricultural collapse create severe humanitarian crises. Understanding how environmental shocks directly amplify disease outbreaks and food shortages is vital for public health authorities, emergency responders, and development agencies seeking to design effective aid programmes and resilient infrastructure in vulnerable, conflict-affected regions.
The research outlines public health interventions and policy needs rather than commercial technologies. It could inform humanitarian organisations, municipal planners, and public health agencies developing flood response strategies or water and sanitation programmes. The abstract does not indicate a direct commercial application pathway or technological readiness level.
AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.
Climate change-induced flooding has caused public health crises in Borno State, Nigeria, which influence the increase of waterborne diseases and malnutrition. Flooding disrupts water and sanitation systems, creating breeding grounds for waterborne diseases such as cholera, malaria, and diarrheal illnesses. The displacement of communities and destruction of agricultural infrastructure due to flooding further increase food insecurity, leading to malnutrition. This paper examines the interplay between flooding, waterborne diseases, and malnutrition in Borno State, highlighting the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies and strengthened healthcare systems to mitigate these public health challenges. Additionally, it highlights the double burden of conflict and climate change where ongoing conflicts impede efforts to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Finally, this paper outlines the socio-economic impacts of flooding and proposes interventions to mitigate the effects of flooding.
This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.
DOI: 10.1177/11786302251321683
Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.
Discussion
Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.
No discussion yet. Open the first thread.
New to MARATTO™? Create a free account.
