Report on the First International Course on “Climate Change and Health” at Tehran University of Medical Sciences

The three-day course was jointly organized by the Climate Change and Health Research Center and the Regional Training Center of the World Meteorological Organization. The first international course on “Climate Change and Health” was held from July 28 to 30, 2025 (6–8 Mordad 1404) at the School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, with the participation of distinguished professors, health experts, and meteorology specialists. This training program was specifically designed for experts in research and studies at the Iran Meteorological Organization and was delivered in collaboration between the WMO Regional Training Center in Tehran and the Climate Change and Health Research Center (CCHRC), affiliated with the Environmental Research Institute of Tehran University of Medical Sciences.

Day One: Terminology, Health System, and Emerging Threats

The official opening of the course began at 8 a.m. with a keynote speech by Dr. Rafinejad, Dean of the School of Public Health. He highlighted climate change as one of the most pressing challenges of the 21st century and emphasized the role of Tehran University of Medical Sciences in advancing interdisciplinary knowledge in this field. Following this, Dr. Kazem Nadafi, Head of the Environmental Research Institute, discussed the multifaceted impacts of climate change on population health.

Next, Dr. Abbas Ostadzadeh Taqizadeh, Head of the Climate Change and Health Research Center, opened his lecture with key concepts, terminology, and the need to establish a common language between health and meteorology specialists. Dr. Ali Ardalan then analyzed the impacts of climate change on public health services. Subsequently, Dr. Ahmadali Hanafi Bojad adopted a forward-looking perspective to examine climate change, vector-borne diseases, and possible scenarios in this domain. Afterward, Dr. Ali Darvishi Bolurani presented an analysis of the health consequences of dust storms. The day concluded with a summary of discussions by Dr. Taqizadeh.

Day Two: Vital Resources and Emerging Diseases

The second day began with a lecture by Dr. Reza Saeedi, who analyzed the impacts of climate change on water resources quality and its public health risks. This was followed by Dr. Mostafa Hadei, who addressed the interconnections between air quality, climate change, and health impacts. Next, Dr. Ahmad Nejati examined climate change trends and their relationship with the emergence of viral diseases. After a short break, Dr. Hadei returned to present on “Heatwaves and Their Implications for Human Health.” The day ended with a session by Dr. Farin Fatemi, who explored the effects of climate change on occupational health and vulnerable working conditions.

Day Three: Social Vulnerabilities and Health System Resilience

On the third and final day, Dr. Alipour presented on “Climate Change and Food Security,” analyzing the effects of climate change on food supply chains and healthy nutrition. This was followed by Ms. Mohammadzadeh, who addressed the important topic of “Children’s Adaptation to Climate Change,” highlighting its physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Next, Dr. Mosadeghrad focused on “Health System Resilience” against climate threats and proposed strategies for enhancing response capacity. The final scientific speaker of the course, Ms. Davarinia, discussed the mental health impacts of climate change, particularly among vulnerable groups.

At the closing session, a comprehensive summary of the three-day training was delivered by Dr. Abbas Ostadzadeh Taqizadeh and Dr. Mostafa Hadei. They expressed appreciation for the active participation of speakers and attendees and stressed the importance of continuing such programs to strengthen intersectoral collaboration in addressing climate crises.