Our subject guides introduce the reader to important and emerging environmental public health issues through a curated list of NCCEH and external resources. The most relevant resources have been selected to best guide the search for further information. Topic pages are reviewed and updated with new content periodically. These lists are not intended to be exhaustive, and the omission of any individual resource does not preclude it from having value.
Drought is defined as an extended period of abnormally dry weather that depletes water resources for human and environmental needs. It is important to note that for drought to occur, the number of…
As climate change leads to more frequent and severe heat waves and more very hot days in Canada and elsewhere, there is an increased risk of indoor overheating. Indoor overheating refers to the…
Climate change is increasing the frequency, duration, and intensity of the number of very hot days in Canada. During heatwaves, the daytime and night-time average temperatures are projected to…
Cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as blue-green algae, are naturally occurring photosynthetic bacteria found in lakes, rivers, brackish, and marine waters. Cyanobacteria can pose a hazard to people…
Some tick species are vectors of disease, meaning they can transmit bacterial, viral or protozoan pathogens to humans or animals through prolonged attachment during a blood meal. In Canada, Tick…
Global change due to factors such as climate change, conflict, migration, urbanization, and aging are expected to amplify the public health impacts of disasters. Psychosocial impacts refer to the…
Climate change is driving an increase in daily extreme precipitation in Canada, which when combined with other landscape factors, such as urbanization, deforestation, and loss of wetlands, can result…
Flooding is the most common climate-related disaster globally, and floods are increasing in frequency across Canada. Floods have a significant and long-term impact on community mental health and…
Outbreaks of infectious foodborne diseases continue to affect populations across Canada, with potentially severe impacts on susceptible groups such as children, older adults, immune compromised…
Sea level rise can cause a range of physical impacts on the built environment, with potential damage, loss, or change to coastal ports, critical infrastructure, private dwellings, transport routes,…