The Impact of Climate Change on Eye Health: A Systematic Review of Evidence and Public Health Implications

Abstract

Background:
Climate change, primarily driven by human activities, has become one of the most pressing global challenges, with far-reaching effects on both environmental and public health. While the effects of climate change on general health have been extensively studied, its impact on eye health remains underexplored. This systematic review synthesizes the evidence on how climate change factors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation, air pollution, temperature extremes, and vector-borne diseases affect ocular health.
Methods:
This review adhered to PRISMA guidelines, including a comprehensive search of four electronic databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Inclusion criteria focused on primary studies published in English from 2000 to 2023 that examined the relationship between climate change and eye health outcomes. A total of 45 studies met the inclusion criteria, and data were extracted on study characteristics, climate change factors, and eye health outcomes.
Results:
The review found a robust association between increased UV radiation and higher prevalence of cataracts and pterygium, particularly in tropical and high-altitude regions. Air pollution, including particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2), was strongly linked to dry eye disease and allergic conjunctivitis, especially in urban populations. Rising temperatures were associated with increased rates of infectious eye diseases, such as trachoma and keratitis, and expanding the geographic range of vectors. Additionally, climate-induced socioeconomic factors like displacement, food insecurity, and limited access to healthcare exacerbated eye health issues in low- and middle-income countries.
Conclusions:
Climate change presents significant and multifaceted risks to ocular health, demanding urgent public health actions. Interventions such as UV protection, reducing air pollution, and strengthening healthcare infrastructure in vulnerable regions are essential for mitigating the effects of climate change on eye health. Future research should focus on exploring underlying mechanisms and developing targeted interventions for eye health in a changing climate.

DOI - https://doi.org/10.65525/SVUP.9788199956094.2026.81-90