​

Why Conservation Medicine?

 

In the last decades, global change is becoming an important concern for society. Climate change, pollution and environmental degradation are seriously compromising the long-term viability of life in our planet. In this changing world, novel interactions between human beings and wildlife are arising with dramatical consequences, either in biodiversity losses or in the emergence of infectious diseases. 

 

Biodiversity losses have resulted in an increasing number of endangered species, which may be highly susceptible to stochastic factors such as diseases. In some cases, health issues are the ultimate factor that contributes to the extinction of wild animal populations. Simultaneously, global change is enhancing the transmission of important diseases for wild animals as well as for domestic animals and human beings. In a globalized world, diseases have no geographical constraints and are of international concern. 

 

These recent events have proved the need for an integrative approach to animal, human and ecosystem health. Veterinary specialists on health and diseases of wild animals in relation to their biology, conservation and interactions with humans and domestic animals are required. Conservation Medicine is an emerging and interdisciplinary field focused on relationships between human and animal health and environmental conditions, addressing the so‐called One Health.