Human blood chemistry is changing in response to increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. Researchers found that blood bicarbonate levels have risen by about seven percent since 1999. During the same period, blood calcium and phosphorus levels have decreased. These changes correlate with the rise in atmospheric CO2.
Scientists from The Kids Research Institute Australia, Curtin University, and The Australian National University (ANU) published these findings. They analyzed over two decades of U.S. population health data. The study used information from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Data from approximately 7,000 individuals was examined at two-year intervals between 1999 and 2020.
Atmospheric CO2 increased from around 369 parts per million (ppm) in 2000 to over 420 ppm today. Bicarbonate is crucial for maintaining the body's acid-base balance. The body retains more bicarbonate to stabilize blood pH as CO2 levels increase. This response helps maintain balance, but long-term effects are a concern.
If current trends continue, average bicarbonate levels could reach the upper limit of the healthy range within 50 years. Calcium and phosphorus levels might also approach the lower end of their healthy ranges later this century. Humans evolved with atmospheric CO2 concentrations between 280 and 300 ppm. The researchers emphasize that this study does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship. However, the consistent changes across a large population warrant further attention.
These findings suggest a new dimension of climate-related risk. Rising CO2 may be a long-term public health factor requiring monitoring. This is in addition to more recognized threats like heatwaves and extreme weather. Monitoring atmospheric composition alongside biological markers could help scientists understand how environmental changes affect human biology over time.
Reducing CO2 emissions is essential for limiting global warming. This research indicates that lowering emissions could also protect long-term human health. Potential physiological effects from rising CO2 should be considered in future climate policy discussions.
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