Environmental factors play a significant role in the development and progression of both infectious and non-infectious diseases. These factors include physical, chemical, biological, and social conditions that affect health outcomes. For example, exposure to pollutants, such as air and water pollution, can lead to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and cancers. Toxins found in the environment, like heavy metals or pesticides, are also linked to neurological disorders and other health issues.

Climate change, through rising temperatures and extreme weather events, exacerbates the spread of infectious diseases by altering the habitats of vectors like mosquitoes, leading to outbreaks of diseases like malaria and dengue. Moreover, poor sanitation and inadequate access to clean water can promote the transmission of infectious agents. Social factors, such as living conditions, urbanization, and access to healthcare, also influence disease risk and health outcomes, highlighting the importance of a holistic approach to environmental health.