Global Warming and Parasitic Infection in Urban Communities: A Systematic Review

Global climate change is an important global issue; it influences not only the environment but also human health. Parasitic infection is one of the most recognized infectious diseases generally observed in rural areas of developing countries in tropical and subtropical zones of all continents. Interestingly, there are few reports on parasitic infections in the temperate zone; however, climate change provides a wide warming area optimal for the survival of several parasites. This situation leads to the spread of parasitic pathogens and their vectors in other zones around the world that they lack access to optimal healthcare. Moreover, the urban community shares a lot of the population in several developed and developing countries, which generally have a better sanitary system when compared with rural areas. Furthermore, there could have been a slight chance of parasitic infections in the past in these urban communities. For several reasons, the association between climate change and parasitic infection in urban areas has caught research interest. Hence, this systematic review proves the increased prevalence of parasitic infections in urban areas worldwide in the last decade. The most prevalent parasites were vector-borne parasites, which directly suggests their relationship with climate change. Our findings can benefit healthcare providers and governors who must address this situation. In conclusion, parasitic infections in urban areas should be an increasing concern given their increased likelihood because of climate change.