"Planetary Health Pledge for the Malaysian Medical Community"
Journal name: The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences
Original article title: Beyond the Hippocratic Oath: A Planetary Health Pledge for the Malaysian Medical Community
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences (MJMS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal published online at least six times a year. It covers all aspects of medical sciences and prioritizes high-quality research.
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Original source:
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Jemilah Mahmood
The Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences:
(A peer-reviewed, open-access journal)
Full text available for: Beyond the Hippocratic Oath: A Planetary Health Pledge for the Malaysian Medical Community
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.21315/mjms2022.29.1.1
Copyright (license): CC BY 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Humanity is currently grappling with multiple crises that jeopardize both public health and the Earth's ecosystems, driven by intricate interactions among political, social, economic, environmental, and humanitarian factors. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the essential linkages between health, environment, and economy, highlighting the challenges faced in Malaysia, particularly during severe weather events like the floods in December 2021 and the recent tornado-like storm in Ipoh. The World Health Organization estimates that 25% of global deaths are linked to environmental risks, with deteriorating air quality in Malaysia contributing to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. These pressing issues reflect the long-standing violation of planetary boundaries due to unsustainable development practices, necessitating a rethinking of approaches to public health and environmental sustainability.
Planetary Health: A Vision for the Anthropocene
In response to these crises, the concept of planetary health has emerged, aimed at achieving optimal health, well-being, and equity globally by recognizing the interconnectedness of human health with Earth's ecosystems and natural limits. The Rockefeller-Lancet Commission’s 2015 report defines planetary health as crucial for balancing human health objectives with environmental sustainability. As the human impact on the planet becomes increasingly pronounced, health professionals must prioritize systems that are adaptable to environmental changes. The fight against climate change and its health implications necessitates a commitment to the principle of "primum non nocere" (first do no harm), which extends to protecting the planet alongside individual human health. This growing awareness and advocacy for planetary health, notably within Malaysian healthcare and academic communities, reinforces the need to rethink health systems and practices in the Anthropocene epoch.
Conclusion
Addressing the decline of Earth’s health is vital for safeguarding the future of humanity. Health professionals have a unique position to facilitate changes in policy and practice, promoting a sustainable and healthier society. By embracing the Planetary Health Pledge, they can lead significant transformations within Malaysia's healthcare system. This entails adopting more sustainable practices, advocating for green initiatives, and strengthening the resilience of health infrastructure to climate impacts. The urgency of acting upon these principles is clearer than ever, as health professionals are called to champion the integration of planetary health into health care and education, ensuring a healthier future for both people and the planet.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What major crises is humanity facing today?
Humanity is grappling with crises affecting health, the environment, and economy, compounded by factors like the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and environmental degradation, which have severe implications for public health and societal resilience.
What is the concept of planetary health?
Planetary health emphasizes the interconnections between human health and Earth's natural systems, advocating for health improvement through understanding and protecting the environment. It calls for integrating health goals with ecological sustainability.
What actions are health professionals encouraged to take?
Health professionals should adopt sustainable practices, advocate for green initiatives, recognize the link between diseases and environmental impact, and enhance the resilience of health systems to climate change alongside other responsibilities.
What initiatives are emerging in Malaysia for planetary health?
In Malaysia, initiatives like the Kuala Lumpur Statement on Planetary Health and the establishment of the Sunway Centre for Planetary Health promote awareness and encourage sustainable practices across health sectors and academia.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “"Planetary Health Pledge for the Malaysian Medical Community"”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Earth:
The planet Earth is central to the planetary health discourse, representing the environmental contexts that directly affect both human health and ecological integrity. Understanding Earth’s systems is crucial in evaluating the impact of human actions on climate, which consequently informs sustainable practices necessary for future generations' well-being and survival.
2) Science (Scientific):
Science plays a vital role in understanding the interactions between human health and the environment. It provides evidence-based insights that inform policies and practices aimed at mitigating health risks posed by environmental degradation. Scientific research is fundamental in developing solutions to global health challenges associated with climate change and pollution.
3) Storm:
The occurrence of storms, particularly extreme weather events, is linked to climate change and poses significant threats to public health and safety. Understanding the health impacts of storms, such as injuries or disease spread following natural disasters, is essential for developing robust disaster preparedness and response strategies that prioritize community resilience.
4) Quality:
Air quality is a significant determinant of health, influencing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. Research on air quality helps identify environmental threats that contribute to health crises, advocating for policies that improve pollution control. Ensuring high air quality is vital for promoting overall public health and reducing disease burden.
5) Disease:
Disease, especially those linked to environmental factors like air pollution, is a critical concern in planetary health. Efforts to understand the relationship between environmental degradation and the emergence of diseases guide public health interventions aimed at preventing future health crises and promoting sustainable living practices that safeguard community well-being.
6) Rampal:
Rampal, mentioned as one of the authors of the Kuala Lumpur Statement on Planetary Health, represents the voices advocating for structured responses to health challenges posed by environmental issues. Individuals like Rampal are key drivers in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration for sustainable health and addressing structural inequalities in healthcare.
7) Death:
Death due to environmental threats highlights the urgent need for integrated health and environmental policies. The link between rising pollution levels and increased mortality rates emphasizes the importance of addressing environmental conditions to improve public health outcomes. Preventive measures can significantly reduce health-related deaths associated with environmental degradation.
8) Food:
Food systems are interconnected with planetary health, impacting nutrition and food security. Sustainable food practices are essential for nurturing both human health and the environment. Addressing food production's ecological impact can help mitigate conditions that lead to health disparities, emphasizing the need for innovative and sustainable food practices that promote health.
9) Educational institution:
Educational institutions are pivotal in shaping future health professionals' understanding of planetary health concepts. They serve as platforms for knowledge sharing, fostering critical thinking and advocacy for sustainable practices. Training within these institutions can empower students to lead transformative health initiatives that address environmental challenges affecting both people and the planet.
10) Mental health:
Mental health is profoundly affected by environmental conditions, including exposure to pollutants, climate anxiety, and disasters. Addressing mental health within the context of planetary health acknowledges the interconnectedness of emotional well-being and environmental stewardship. Promoting mental health awareness is essential for resilience in adapting to environmental changes.
11) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation refers to the comprehensive changes required in health systems to adapt to the realities of the Anthropocene. Emphasizing sustainability and resilience in health practices fosters a shift in approach toward planetary health. Sustainable transformations can lead to more effective health responses that consider environmental impacts and promote overall well-being.
12) Reflecting:
Reflecting on past practices and their results is vital for addressing current health challenges in the context of planetary health. By contemplating historical actions, practitioners can identify mistakes, learn from them, and develop better strategies to foster an integrated relationship between public health initiatives and environmental sustainability.
13) Knowledge:
Knowledge is central to the advancement of planetary health, driving informed decisions and policy frameworks. Scientific knowledge about environmental systems informs healthcare practices. Additionally, sharing knowledge empowers communities to actively participate in health and environmental advocacy, fostering a collective responsibility for sustainable living.
14) Language:
Language facilitates communication and understanding of complex ideas surrounding planetary health. The terminology used in health and environmental discussions shapes perceptions and influences policy. Effective communication ensures that diverse stakeholders can engage collaboratively in addressing the mutual dependencies between human health and environmental stewardship.
15) Potter:
Potter, as a name within the context of planetary health, may symbolize individuals contributing to health discussions and advocating for change. While specifics might not be provided, the reference denotes the collaborative effort of professionals united in purpose to address planetary health challenges through research, education, and community engagement.
16) Roman (Roma):
Roman serves as a linguistic cue, potentially referencing historical contexts or methodologies that inform current health practices. The inclusion of varied cultural perspectives enhances understanding of planetary health, advocating for inclusivity in conversations surrounding environmental sustainability and health equity across diverse populations.
17) Field:
Field denotes the emerging discipline of planetary health, highlighting the need for interdisciplinary approaches that integrate health, environmental science, and policy. The field focuses on how interconnected systems impact human health, urging action towards sustainable practices that safeguard both people and the planet.
18) Fight:
Fight encapsulates the collective struggle against the looming threats posed by climate change and environmental degradation. The language of fighting against these challenges emphasizes the urgency of coordinated efforts to protect public health and promote sustainable practices, fostering resilience in communities faced with environmental crises.
19) Hand:
Hand represents cooperation and partnership within the context of planetary health. Collaborative efforts among health professionals, communities, and policymakers are essential to developing strategies that address complex health-environment interconnections. This cooperative spirit is crucial for building sustainable systems that promote health and environmental integrity for future generations.
20) Post:
Post refers to the implication of an action taken or a phase achieved in addressing planetary health challenges. It may relate to post-policy discussions, community engagements, or the outcomes of health initiatives aimed at improving quality of life within the ecological context. Reflection on post-actions informs future strategies and practices.
Other Health Sciences Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘"Planetary Health Pledge for the Malaysian Medical Community"’. Further sources in the context of Health Sciences might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
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