Climate change, heatwaves, and public health: Urgent call for global action
The heatwave that has engulfed the world is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of climate change. With temperatures rising at an alarming rate, the effects of this extreme weather are being felt by people and the environment alike. For instance, temperatures soared to 26 degree Celsius in Britain, with Ireland predicting a mini heatwave of 22 degree Celsius by June 26–28.[1],[2] On the other hand, Southeast Asia has been facing the brunt of the sun with upwards of 40 degree Celsius in multiple places for the last month.[3] This shows that it is not just the polar ice caps that are melting, human health is also on the line.
Research indicates that currently, 3.6 billion individuals reside in regions highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Projections suggest that between 2030 and 2050, climate-related factors, including undernutrition, malaria, diarrhoea, and heat stress, could result in roughly 2,50,000 additional fatalities annually. The direct economic toll on health systems, excluding related sectors like agriculture and water management, is estimated to range from $2 to $4 billion per annum by 2030. Particularly in developing nations, areas with limited healthcare infrastructure will face significant challenges in adapting to and addressing these impacts without external support.[4]
Heatwaves and public health
Extreme heat events pose significant risks to public health as they can cause heat-related illnesses. Studies indicate that nearly half a million heat-related deaths occur annually, with Asia and Europe bearing the brunt.[5] Heat stress is the top cause of weather-related fatalities and can worsen existing health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and mental health issues. Moreover, heatstroke is a serious medical emergency with a high chance of death.
Furthermore, heatwaves can exacerbate air pollution problems, worsening respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.[6] A warming planet can also alter the distribution and behaviour of disease-carrying vectors such as mosquitoes and ticks and lead to an increased incidence of diseases such as dengue fever, Zika virus, and Lyme disease.[7]
A way ahead
The time to act is now. In fact, in the recent G7 summit held in Italy, top world leaders reaffirmed their dedication to addressing climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, aiming to keep the global temperature rise within the 1.5°C limit. They pledged to fulfil the commitments made at the COP28 climate change conference, which include tripling renewable energy capacity and doubling global energy efficiency by 2030.[8] Recent data suggests that the energy system is undergoing an “exponential” transformation driven by renewables, electrification, and energy efficiency.[9]
Localised initiatives are also making a big impact on the climate. For instance, through the collaborative efforts of municipal corporation, the Indian Institute of Public Health, and the Natural Resource Defense Council, the Ahmedabad Heat Action Plan in India has painted the roofs of over 7,000 low-income households white. This initiative has preserved approximately 1,100 lives annually. In another project located in Rudrapur, northern Bangladesh, students and architects collaborated with local architects and artisans to construct residences for low-income households. Employing a combination of mud, bamboo, and modern materials, they incorporated features such as cross-ventilation openings, insulation crafted from coconut fibre, and glass windows. Additionally, traditional stilt houses, akin to those in Assam, effectively utilize passive cooling techniques to keep cool.[10]
When it comes to climate change, each voice matters. As health communication specialists, the onus is on us. By facilitating open and collaborative dialogue about sustainable strategies, we can not only decrease the burden of heat-related illnesses but also contribute to reducing the impact of climate change. So, let’s be the voice that echoes change — for our planet, our future, for all of humanity. Together, we can ignite the spark of awareness and inspire action.
[1] https://www.indiatoday.in/world/story/heatwave-uk-british-shipped-ice-to-india-escaped-to-hill-stations-shimla-nainital-2554797-2024-06-18
[2] https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/northern-ireland/heatwave-could-hit-northern-ireland-after-low-june-temperatures/a1171089405.html
[3] https://www.telegraph.co.uk/global-health/climate-and-people/thailand-heatwave-asia-el-nino-climate-change-weather/
[4] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health#:~:text=Climate%20change%20induces%20both%20immediate,to%20human%2Dinduced%20climate%20change.
[5] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-heat-and-health#:~:text=Heat%20stress%20is%20the%20leading,transmission%20of%20some%20infectious%20diseases.
[6] https://www.epa.gov/ground-level-ozone-pollution/ground-level-ozone-basics#:~:text=What%20are%20the%20health%20effects,ozone%20include%20people%20with%20asthma%20.
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6747303/
[8] https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2024/06/g7-italy-summit-key-talking-points/
[9] https://www.sustainableviews.com/in-charts-energy-transition-pragmatists-say-paris-agreement-could-still-be-within-reach-e0b92411/
[10] https://scroll.in/article/1010948/five-sustainable-cooling-solutions-that-can-help-south-asia-withstand-global-warming
