1. United States
2. Mass.
3. Letter

Climate change poses a grave threat to public health, with extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and environmental changes contributing to increased risk of heat-related illnesses, respiratory diseases, vector-borne diseases, and other adverse health impacts. Rigorous scientific research is crucial to understanding and mitigating these effects. The decision to terminate National Institutes of Health funding for studies on the health impacts of climate change is deeply concerning and will hamper our ability to protect the well-being of all Americans. As leaders, we have a responsibility to support evidence-based policies that safeguard public health and prioritize the safety of our communities. I urge you to reconsider this misguided directive and restore funding for this critically important area of research. Climate change is a reality, and ignoring its consequences on human health will only exacerbate the crisis. We must take proactive measures guided by sound science to address this mounting challenge.