The Journal of Climate Change and Health

Introduction The Caribbean region is repeatedly exposed to extreme climate-related events, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, which are expected to increase in severity with climate change. This study aims to better understand how extreme climate events affect human mobility, social circumstances, and health-related issues in the Eastern Caribbean, focusing more specifically on Dominica, a Small Island Developing State (SIDS). Methods Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with people who were internally displaced following an extreme climate event in Dominica, and with people who migrated from Dominica to Guadeloupe. Results Mental health was a central issue discussed by participants. Some respondents raised issues regarding loss of livelihoods and poverty that affected their living conditions. For those who decided to migrate to Guadeloupe, the difficulties of getting migrant authorized status were very stressful. Other themes related to displacement trajectory, income, occupation, housing, access to food and water, health and psychosocial services, and the role of local and international assistance and social support and ties – that are well known social determinants of mental health, were raised by participants. Discussion and conclusion Mental health and related determinants should be seen as a public health priority in Caribbean SIDS. Psycho-social interventions that focus on potential sources of vulnerabilities to mental health issues should be integrated in climate preparedness and response efforts. Otherwise, pre-existing social vulnerabilities may be aggravated, limiting the adaptation capacities of Caribbean SIDS to climate change. Public health and the health care system have a role to play in climate change adaptation.

Climate change is a reality in the Caribbean that will continue to have a significant impact on human health and the health sector. The health impacts are exacerbated due to the vulnerabilities inherent in populations residing in tropical Small Island Developing States. A review of original research studies related to health and climate change in the Caribbean was conducted using online academic databases. The aim of the review was to synthesize evidence around the nexus between climate and health in the Caribbean, thereby presenting a more concise understanding of the current impact on vulnerable low-lying and coastal communities. Twenty-seven original studies published between 2006 and 2021 were identified. These studies were grouped into categories by health issue. The synthesis of existing Caribbean evidence on climate change and health outcomes will facilitate the prioritization of mitigation and adaptation efforts, support novel proposals for health and climate financing and identify gaps in the research agenda. In most categories a limited amount of research exists, especially when considering the increasing impact from climate on Caribbean life and well-being. In addition to the health impacts noted, gaps in research include reaching vulnerable populations, national application of health mitigation/adaptation strategies and efforts to increase climate and health research capacity.