Time: 30:00
Passage 1 of 4
1. Increased global temperature
2. Mental health concerns due to climate change
3. The text ___ integration of climate resilience strategies with public health policies.
4. Involving the community in tackling the negative impacts of climate change ___ in raising public awareness.
5. The text favors ___ to reduce the health impacts of climate change.
6. Air pollution primarily affects
7. Which pollutants are mentioned as particularly harmful?
8. How does climate change worsen air pollution's effects?
9. Who is most vulnerable to air pollution's effects?
10. What solutions does the text recommend?
11. Climate change primarily affects global food security by:
12. The nutritional quality of crops is affected by climate change through:
13. Vulnerable populations facing nutrition deficiencies are primarily in:
14. Climate-smart agricultural practices include:
15. The text suggests building resilience through:
16. Climate change affects vector-borne diseases by:
17. The public health burden of vector-borne diseases is most severe in:
18. Effective control strategies mentioned include:
19. Community involvement helps by:
20. The text advocates for:

Passage 1

The increase in global temperatures, driven by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion and deforestation, poses significant risks to public health. Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense, leading to heat-related illnesses and deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations like the elderly and those with preexisting conditions.

Rising temperatures also exacerbate air pollution, worsening respiratory conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Moreover, the spread of vector-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue fever, has accelerated as warmer climates expand the habitats of disease-carrying insects. The connection between extreme weather conditions and mental health concerns is another significant aspect.

Addressing these challenges requires the integration of climate resilience strategies into public health policies. These strategies include urban planning to mitigate heat islands, improving access to healthcare during extreme weather events, and fostering community involvement to build awareness and preparedness. Sustainable practices, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, remain a critical focus for long-term solutions.

Passage 2
Air pollution is a growing concern in both urban and rural areas, significantly impacting respiratory health worldwide. Particulate matter (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone are among the most harmful pollutants, as they penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream. Chronic exposure to these pollutants increases the risk of respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and lung cancer.
The effects of air pollution are amplified by climate change. For instance, rising temperatures lead to higher levels of ozone formation, compounding respiratory challenges. Vulnerable populations, including children and individuals with preexisting conditions, are particularly at risk.
Mitigating air pollution involves adopting sustainable transportation, enhancing green spaces, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources. Public health policies must also prioritize community education and stricter emissions standards to protect respiratory health in the face of environmental changes.

Passage 3
Climate change poses significant challenges to global food security, which in turn affects public health. Extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves disrupt agricultural production, leading to food shortages and higher prices. Malnutrition and foodborne diseases are on the rise, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The changing climate also affects the nutritional quality of crops. Studies show that elevated carbon dioxide levels can reduce the protein, iron, and zinc content of staple crops, exacerbating nutrient deficiencies in vulnerable populations.
To address these issues, integrating climate-smart agricultural practices, such as crop diversification and efficient water management, is essential. Furthermore, international cooperation and community-driven initiatives can help build resilience to climate-related food security challenges.

Passage 4
Climate change has been linked to the increased spread of vector-borne diseases, which are transmitted by organisms such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns have expanded the habitats of vectors, making diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease more prevalent in regions previously unaffected.
The public health burden of these diseases is significant, particularly in low-resource settings where healthcare infrastructure is limited. Efforts to control the spread of vector-borne diseases must involve climate-sensitive strategies, such as monitoring vector populations, promoting vaccine development, and improving access to treatment.

Public awareness campaigns and community involvement are also essential in reducing risk factors, such as standing water and unprotected exposure to vectors. Integrated approaches that address both climate and health challenges can mitigate the impact of these diseases on global populations.