
Rising temperatures have pushed global health systems into a state of growing fragility, with extreme heat causing hundreds of thousands of deaths each year and many hospitals vulnerable to climate-related shutdowns. The Belém Health Action Plan stresses that adaptation must go hand in hand with rapid decarbonization, since the health sector itself contributes around 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions. While many countries are beginning to strengthen early-warning systems and climate-resilient infrastructure, major gaps remain, particularly in protecting vulnerable communities. With clear evidence and practical solutions already available, governments are urged to integrate health into climate policy, invest in resilient facilities, and ensure communities play a central role in shaping responses.