Chapter 15 and Climate Change

Confounding

A mix-up between the exposure and another factor that also affects the outcome.

Interactions

When the effect of one factor changes depending on another factor.

Selection Bias

When the people included in the study are not representative of the whole population.

Information Bias

Errors in collecting or recording data.

Measurement Bias

A type of information bias where tools or methods give wrong measurements.

Misclassification Bias

A type of information bias where people are put into the wrong group.

Web of Causation

A model showing how many different factors all link together to cause disease.

Synergism (Positive Interactions)

Two factors work together to increase the effect.

Antagonism (Negative Interactions)

One factor weakens or cancels out the effect of another.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that trap heat in the Earth's atmosphere from sources like burning fossil fuels, cars, and agriculture.

Impact of Greenhouse Gases on Global Temperatures

They hold in heat from the sun, causing the Earth's temperature to rise over time.

Climate Consequences of Global Warming

More extreme weather, rising sea levels, wildfires, droughts, and damage to ecosystems.

Evidence of Climate Change

Scientists track rising global temperatures, melting glaciers, and changing rainfall patterns.

Human-Caused Climate Change Evidence

The increase in carbon dioxide gases matches human activities like burning fuel and cutting forests.

Health Implications of Climate Change

Increases heat-related illnesses, asthma, disease spread, and food and water shortages.

Cost of Action vs. Inaction on Climate Change

Taking action incurs costs, but inaction could lead to greater costs from disasters and health issues.

Individual Actions to Reduce Global Warming

Use less energy, drive less, recycle, support clean energy, and plant trees.

Mitigation Efforts for Climate Change

Switch to renewable energy, improve public transportation, enhance building energy efficiency, and protect air and water quality.