Examining the Health Risks Amid Record High Temperatures in Global Heatwaves

Photo : PTI

Authorities have issued heat warnings across regions spanning China, India, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States as temperatures soar to extreme levels, prompting concerns about health risks and urging precautionary measures. In London, where the Northern Hemisphere is experiencing unprecedented heat this week, public health experts and officials are emphasizing the importance of staying safe in the heat wave.

The health risks associated with high temperatures are significant and multifaceted. Heat exhaustion, characterized by symptoms like dizziness, headaches, and excessive thirst, can affect anyone exposed to prolonged heat but typically resolves with rest and hydration. More severe is heatstroke, a medical emergency where the body's core temperature surpasses 40.6 degrees Celsius (105 degrees Fahrenheit), leading to potential organ damage and even death. Symptoms of heatstroke include rapid breathing, confusion, seizures, and nausea.

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Climate change exacerbates these risks by increasing humidity levels, which impairs the body's ability to cool down through sweating. Vulnerable populations such as infants, elderly individuals, homeless people, and those with pre-existing health conditions like respiratory and cardiovascular diseases or diabetes are particularly at risk.

Although specific statistics on heat-related deaths are often underreported, a study published in The Lancet estimated nearly half a million deaths annually worldwide due to excess heat, a figure that likely underestimates the true impact, especially in low-income countries. Concerns are heightened by memories of the deadly 2022 European summer heatwaves, which claimed an estimated 61,000 lives.

Beyond direct health impacts, extreme heat can also lead to secondary risks such as water contamination, increased prevalence of waterborne diseases like cholera, and crop damage affecting food security. Moreover, wildfires exacerbated by dry conditions contribute to hazardous air quality, which can exacerbate respiratory issues and pose additional health risks.

Public health agencies globally are advising the public on measures to mitigate heat exposure, including staying hydrated, avoiding strenuous activities during peak heat hours, and seeking out cooling centers or air-conditioned spaces. Authorities are also implementing strategies like distributing water, providing access to air-conditioned public transport, and adjusting work and school schedules to minimize heat exposure.

As global temperatures continue to rise, experts emphasize the importance of early adaptation measures and community support for vulnerable populations. Timely intervention, proactive public health measures, and community resilience efforts are crucial in mitigating the growing health risks associated with extreme heat events exacerbated by climate change.