A systematic review on the relationship between marine pollution and human health in small island developing states

Abstract Introduction: The global ocean is a vital source of resources crucial for human well-being, supplying oxygen, food, livelihoods, medications, and serene blue spaces. Pollution and deterioration of the marine environment have widespread impacts on economic, social, and healthcare systems worldwide, with the most significant impacts being on sea-dependent nations like small island developing states (SIDS). Framed within the One Health framework’s dedication to optimizing human, animal, and environmental health, this systematic review seeks to identify all established connections between marine pollution and human health in SIDS and then offers a visual tool adapted from the Planetary Boundaries framework to underscore the relationship between disruptors of the marine ecosystem and the resulting health consequences for humans. Methods: This review follows the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Studies were included if they were set in SIDS and investigated human health issues caused by marine pollution and were published from inception to 2022 in English. Results: Most studies investigate the effects of biological contaminants, chemical pollutants, climate change, and global warming, with the main channel of exposure to humans consuming seafood. In relation to the Planetary Boundaries, seven out of nine are of interest, with climate change and biochemical flows being linked to the highest number of caused pathologies. Conclusions: Our findings corroborate the relation between disruption of the marine ecosystem and human health, emphasizing the need for protective interventions tailored to SIDS’ vulnerabilities, through the establishment of interdisciplinary workgroups involving stakeholders at all levels. Effective pollution control policies can play a pivotal role in this, fostering prosperity and resilience that optimizes the health of the environment as a whole.