Heat is a problem for one in four in Germany
Rising temperatures impact the well-being and health of many people. They feel drained, have circulatory issues, sleep disorders, and less energy. Additionally, there are growing concerns about the increase in heatwaves and extreme weather. This is what a recent study has found.
About one in four people in Germany have already experienced health issues due to extreme heat this year. According to a study commissioned by the health insurance company DAK-Gesundheit, these issues can include feeling drained, circulatory problems, and sleep disorders.
In the age group over 60, about one in three have been affected. Compared to last year, there has been a noticeable, overall slight increase, as shown in the health insurance company's heat report.
Many skip doctor visits - and regret it
According to a survey by the Forsa institute, nearly two-thirds of people are greatly concerned about heatwaves and extreme weather. Young people are particularly affected by fears.
Those surveyed who had health issues were mainly affected by exhaustion (76%), circulatory problems (66%), and sleep disorders (59%). Of those with heat-related issues, 5% visited a doctor's office. Another 16% said they had skipped a visit but would have been better off going.
Concerns about more heatwaves and extreme weather
Given the predicted increase in heatwaves and extreme weather, 61% are very or extremely concerned. Young people aged 18 to 29 are particularly worried - 23% are extremely concerned. In comparison, 12% of those over 60 share this concern.
DAK CEO Andreas Storm advocates for further expansion of heat prevention in Germany. "It's alarming how many people have already experienced health issues in the first heat waves," he said. While the federal government, states, and municipalities have done a lot, protection plans need to be expanded further. "Especially children, the sick, and the elderly need better protection from heat." The insurance boss also called for more heat protection in the workplace.
Care sector particularly affected
Many believe that something needs to be done urgently for members of certain professions and sectors. For example, 89% think that construction, manufacturing, and other physically demanding sectors are strongly affected by heatwaves. More people than last year consider the care sector in nursing homes and care facilities to be at risk (80%), and more than half (58%) consider medical care in hospitals to be at risk.
The researchers also surveyed care workers - among them, the proportion of those strongly affected by heat is actually more than twice as high as the average of all employed people.
The importance of education in equipping individuals with knowledge about heat-related health risks is becoming increasingly apparent. Such education can empower people to take necessary precautions and seek medical help when needed.
Consequently, incorporating heat safety education into school curriculums and workplaces could significantly reduce the number of people who regret avoiding doctor visits during heatwaves.
