SOSCHI Framework Overview
The SOSCHI framework covers a wide range of health-related topics which are affected by climate change, namely temperature-related illness, mental health, health effects of extreme weather events (wildfire and floods), water-borne diseases, vector-borne diseases, health effects of air pollution and air-borne diseases, under-nutrition and food-borne diseases, and healthcare systems and facilities. Alpha versions of the SOSCHI framework topic documents are currently available. The final SOSCHI Framework report and final topic documents for selected topic documents will be published by June 2026.
The SOSCHI framework has been developed by ONS in collaboration with partners from the African Institute for Mathematical Studies (AIMS) in Rwanda, and the Regional Institute for Population Studies (RIPS) in Ghana and with input from the UK Health Security Agency, the Cochrane Planetary Health Theme Group, and a large number of leading subject experts.
See the About us page for more information.
Figure 1 illustrates the timeline and stages of the SOSCHI project. The activities that defined the earlier stages of the project are described in detail in the previously published Discovery Phase Report and Alpha phase report.
Discovery Phase (2022 - 2023)
ONS Climate and Health team begin
Alpha Phase (2023 - 2024)
First draft of statistical framework and platform
Beta Phase (2024 - 2025)
Further refinement of framework and platform
Launch (2025 - 2026)
Final drafts signed off
The involvement of experts and users throughout the development process has ensured that proposed indicators are based on state-of-the-art statistical methods and can be implemented beyond the project partner countries.
The “topic pages” also include information on the specific experts engaged in the development of the SOSCHI framework.
Heat and cold
Climate change is altering global temperature trends. Increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of temperature extremes in many countries. Extreme hot and cold temperatures can cause or exacerbate a range of illnesses through varied physiological mechanisms.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts attributable to temperature variation, using a time-series approach.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Non-communicable diseases
Climate change is a global challenge that has significant implications for human health. Rising temperatures, shifting weather patterns, and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events are directly impacting health outcomes across the globe. The interaction between climate change and health is especially evident in the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which are further exacerbated by environmental shifts.
This topic area demonstrates how temperature extremes impact NCD outcomes. Going forward, the methodological approach for indicators within this topic area will be combined with the heat- and cold-related mortality topic.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
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Wildfires
Climate change is increasing the frequency, intensity, and duration of hot and dry conditions, which increases the risk of wildfires. These are defined as uncontrolled or unplanned fires that occur in vegetated areas. Wildfire hazards are predominantly fire and its associated smoke and air pollution. Wildfire exposure increases the risk of mortality and morbidity. Vulnerability to this exposure is controlled by demographic and socioeconomic factors, thus risk is not distributed evenly within populations.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts attributable to wildfire smoke, using a case-crossover approach.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Flooding
Flooding is a significant global health hazard, with far-reaching implications for public health, infrastructure, and socioeconomic stability. Climate change has significantly increased the frequency and severity of flooding events through more intense precipitation, elevated sea levels and accelerated snowmelt.
This topic area focuses on quantifying the short-term health impacts associated with flash and fluvial floods.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Contents
Air pollution
The interplay between climate change and air pollution presents a pressing global health hazard with far-reaching implications for human well-being and environmental sustainability. The health impacts of air pollution by climate change are extensive and multifaceted, impacting individuals in both the short-term and long-term, encompassing a range of acute and chronic conditions.
This topic area aims to quantify the short-term health impacts of particulate matter (PM2.5) on all-cause mortality.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Airborne disease (CSM)
Climate change is leading to more frequent and intense high temperatures, droughts, and wildfires. These changes promote the spread of certain airborne diseases which are impacted by warm temperatures, dry conditions, dusty winds, overcrowding, and poor sanitation. One airborne disease which is particularly impacted by these conditions is Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM). CSM is prevalent in the African Meningitis Belt and has severe health impacts.
Methods for this topic are still in development, therefore a preliminary “Methods Review” document has been published at this stage. This document may be updated to a “Methodology” document depending on the feasibility of ongoing developments and decisions on the final scope of proposed indicators and methods.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts of Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) attributable to high temperatures.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Contents
Waterborne diseases
Climate change is leading to more extreme temperatures and precipitation. These changes promote the spread of certain waterborne diseases which are impacted by extreme temperatures, contamination of waterbodies through runoff, dry conditions, water scarcity, and poor sanitation. Diarrheal disease is one of the most prevalent waterborne diseases and is highly impacted by these climatic conditions. Diarrheal disease is a public health concern particularly among young children and in Sub-Saharan Africa.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts of diarrheal disease attributable to extreme temperatures and precipitation.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Chemical contaminants
Climate change is leading to more extreme temperatures, precipitation, and weather events. These changes impact the presence of harmful chemicals in the environment through factors such as contamination of waterbodies through runoff, reduced dilution of waterbodies, and greater use of agricultural chemicals to support crop and cattle yield in warm and dry conditions. Exposure to these contaminants is linked with a range of health outcomes.
This topic introduction provides an overview of the process we took to identify a climate-health chemical contaminants indicator.
This process identified significant limitations in data availability and knowledge within this field. As a result, the SOSCHI framework will not include an indicator on chemical contaminants. We make recommendations for future developments within the field and highlight Harmful Algal Blooms as a potential future indicator.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Vector-borne diseases
Climate change is leading to more extreme temperatures and precipitation. These changes promote the spread of certain vector-borne diseases which are impacted by warmer temperatures, humidity, and heavy rainfall. Malaria is a significant public health issue, particularly in tropical and subtropical world regions, and is highly impacted by these climatic changes.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts of malaria attributable to extreme temperatures and precipitation.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Undernutrition
Climate change is leading to more extreme temperatures, precipitation, and other weather events. These changes exacerbate conditions which lead to undernutrition, a health condition resulting from an imbalance in dietary intake, where nutrients are either insufficiently or overly consumed, leading to adverse health effects. Conditions which impact undernutrition include soil fertility, crop and livestock production and diversity, food and water security, and sanitation.
This topic area aims to quantify the health impacts of undernutrition attributable to extreme temperatures, precipitation, and drought.
Methods for this topic are still in development, therefore a preliminary “Methods Review” document has been published at this stage. This document may be updated to a “Methodology” document depending on the feasibility of ongoing developments and decisions on the final scope of proposed indicators and methods.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Mental health
Climate change is leading to more frequent and extreme climate-related hazards that influence mental health outcomes. Direct impacts on mental health can arise from increased exposure to extreme temperatures and extreme weather events. Indirect impacts can be due to displacement, malnutrition, conflict, climate-related economic and social losses, along with anxiety and distress associated with worry about climate change.
This topic area aims to quantify the mental health impacts, specifically suicides, attributable to extreme temperatures, using a case-crossover approach.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.
Healthcare systems and facilities
Healthcare systems include a broad range of activities from public health initiatives to services, covering both private and public sectors. Globally, healthcare systems are under significant pressure which are further compounded by the effects of climate change. These can be direct impacts to infrastructure as well as disruption to medical supply and service delivery.
The ability of facilities to function, particularly in vulnerable regions, during extreme conditions such as flooding, heatwaves and storms determines the effectiveness of these systems in mitigating the impacts of climate change on public health.
This topic area follows a different approach to the wider framework, aiming to use qualitative methods to assess the impact on health workforce, infrastructure and technology as well as service delivery.
The framework topic documents are an alpha version produced as part of the SOSCHI project (Wellcome grant no. 224682/Z/21/Z). Please note that as this is an emerging topic area, indicators and methods are subject to change. Notices will be issued on this page to inform users of any changes to the information captured. For more information on the selection criteria used for prioritising the SOSCHI topics, see the SOSCHI Framework Page for more information on the development process.
The proposed indicators and methods described on this page are not fully ready for implementation within official statistics reporting. The current version has been shared in line with our open-source values – to encourage collaboration, transparency and accessibility allowing users to freely, use, modify and update these guidance materials and tools developed as part of the SOSCHI project.