Pointing out not only present vulnerabilities but also future possibilities, the main implications of climate change on the health of human society, both on a global level as well as in Brazil , are concisely discussed. The discussion is based on historical knowledge of the relation between climate variability and health in Brazil , on results of recent research of the spatial distribution of vulnerability in the Brazilian geographic space, and on the application of general knowledge produced by IPCC. It is believed that phenomena associated with climate change may add additional stress to already existing problem situations, such as: malnutrition, endemic infectious diseases, and accidents caused by extreme events. Additional risks to public health must also be considered: excessive demand on health services, problems with water supply, and possible increase of respiratory disorders. The methodology employed in the study must be applied and adapted taking regional, state, and municipal situations into consideration. The improvement of endemic control programs and its vectors must be emphasized. The public should be informed of the impact of climate change on the health of the country's population. The use of data and information from the health sector in conjunction with that of sectors such as housing, demography, climatology, and the environment, will be of great value in the elaboration of scenarios of integrated vulnerability.