Health effects at the intersection of climate change and structural racism in the United States: A scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Climate change and structural racism are significant threats to public health and health equity. The impacts of each individual problem on human health and well-being have been documented; what is less known is the impact of the intersection of climate change and structural racism on health. Purpose: To conduct a scoping review to examine the emerging knowledge related to the impact of climate change and structural racism on the health and well-being of racialized minority groups in the United States. Methods: A scoping review was conducted using the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PubMed, CINAHL, and PsychInfo databases. Two searches were conducted between 11/2021 and 7/2023. Data were extracted and analyzed; and themes were identified. Results: Of 148 full-text reviews, 28 were included in the final synthesis. Texas was the US state most represented in research studies. Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino populations were the most discussed and studied populations. The overarching theme identified was the enduring legacy of historical redlining on inequitable climate and environmental exposures. Four subthemes included environmental justice impacts, climate justice impacts, ecopandemic injustice, and the emergence of syndemics. Conclusion: Climate justice, environmental justice and structural racism have individual impacts on health; however, they are inextricably linked and have wide-ranging impacts on health and well-being. Implications for education, clinical practice, policy and advocacy, and research are outlined. Health providers have an opportunity to partner with disinvested communities to develop realistic strategies to create more resilient, vibrant communities that will lead to improved health outcomes.

Keywords

• Climate change
• Climate justice
• Environmental justice
• Structural racism
• Health
• Historical redlining