Scientists Identify 17 Major Threats to Humanity by 2100
Two of them could lead to extinction, while the rest exacerbate one another, writes IFLScience.
A study published in the journal *The Lancet* has identified 17 catastrophic risks to humanity over the next 75 years.
At the top of the list are the malicious use of artificial intelligence and nuclear war. Scientists note that the public underestimates the danger of nuclear weapons, even though the risk of their use is growing. AI also sparks debate: experts disagree on whether it poses a real existential threat.
The remaining 15 threats include climate change, air pollution, pandemics, antibiotic resistance, obesity, smoking, and income inequality. For example, climate change intensifies air pollution and facilitates the spread of insect-borne diseases. Deforestation increases the risk of zoonotic infections, which could trigger new pandemics.
The authors of the study propose increasing funding for scientific research that will help combat these threats. Without coordinated action, the risks will only escalate.
Other dangers include low education levels, poor mental health, high blood pressure, and childhood malnutrition. Scientists emphasize that these issues cannot be considered in isolation: they interact and amplify the overall crisis.
The study also highlights unhealthy population aging and reduced healthcare development assistance. These factors could worsen the situation amid growing global challenges.
