Scientists detect a surprising shift in human blood as CO2 rises
A study analyzing 20 years of U.S. health data suggests that rising atmospheric CO2 levels are causing measurable shifts in human blood chemistry, specifically increasing bicarbonate levels. Researchers warn that these changes could impact long-term health, particularly for younger generations.
Why it matters
This research provides evidence of the direct biological impact of climate change on human physiology, beyond traditional environmental concerns.
Rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere may already be influencing human biology. New research has identified long-term changes in blood chemistry that appear to track rising atmospheric CO 2 , raising concerns that an important blood marker could approach the upper end of its healthy range within the next several decades.
The findings may be particularly important for children and teenagers. Because their bodies are still developing, younger generations are expected to experience the greatest lifetime exposure to elevated atmospheric CO 2 .
In a study published in Air Quality, Atmosphere and Health , scientists from The Kids Research Institute Australia, Curtin University and The Australian National University (ANU) examined more than 20 years of U.S. population health data. They found persistent changes in several measures of blood chemistry that closely followed the upward trend in atmospheric CO 2 .
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in