This presentation will focus on climate change and health in Alaska, particularly how some communities are disproportionately affected by climate change due to existing social and health inequities. Climate change can worsen these inequities, contributing to persistent disparities in the resources needed to prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-driven impacts. We will also discuss the importance of considering existing disparities when developing climate adaptation strategies. Through this presentation, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness between climate change, social determinants of health (SDOH), and health outcomes, and to inspire action towards building more resilient communities.

This presentation addresses increasing health equity through information and the NNLM initiative of environmental determinants of health by providing information for a greater understanding of the interconnectedness between climate change and health and how it affects some communities disproportionately in Alaska. By registering for this class, you are agreeing to the NNLM Code of Conduct.

About the Speaker

Sarah Yoder grew up in rural Colorado and received her bachelor's and master's degrees in environmental health from Colorado State University. She worked for the Alaska Department of Health for over ten years in roles that included managing the state’s Health Impact Assessment and Environmental Public Health Programs. Sarah has recently taken on a new role with the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), where she leads the Center for Climate and Health and is working with communities to understand the connections between climate change and community health and to provide support to when planning for or responding to impacts.

This webinar series includes an accompanying guide. Each session has its own tab with information about the presenter(s) and related resources to the presentation topic.