Heat is claiming more lives in Europe
Heat stress is already the most common climate-related cause of death in Europe. Yet, many lives could be saved with the right measures, emphasizes the WHO.
With new temperature records being set worldwide due to the climate crisis and persistent summer heat in Southern Europe, the World Health Organization (WHO) warns of the health risks of extreme heat for Europe's population. The European region is the fastest warming among the six WHO regions, according to WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge in Copenhagen. The 53 member states of the region are paying the highest price.
Estimates show that there were approximately 489,000 heat-related deaths worldwide each year from 2000 to 2019, with around 176,000 on average in Europe annually. More alarming, heat-related mortality has increased by 30 percent over the past 20 years, Kluge noted. The number of heat-related deaths has risen in almost all countries in the region where such monitoring is conducted.
Heat-related health impacts are largely preventable
UN Secretary-General António Guterres recently warned that the world must prepare for permanently altered summer temperatures due to the climate crisis. In light of these statements, Kluge urged communities to develop action plans to build resilience against heatwaves. Governments and local authorities should establish or update their own heat plans.
The fact is that the negative health impacts of high temperatures are largely preventable with the right measures, Kluge said. "So, if we're better prepared for a hotter region, we'll save many lives, both today and in the future."
For the summer, Kluge reminded of simple behaviors to protect oneself from the heat: avoid strenuous activities during the hottest times of the day, keep one's home and body as cool as possible, drink plenty of water, and generally take care of oneself and others.
Education plays a crucial role in equipping individuals with the knowledge needed to cope with heat stress. By incorporating climate change and heat health risks into educational curriculums, we can prepare future generations to make informed decisions and take appropriate measures to protect themselves. Furthermore, promoting public awareness campaigns about heat safety can help save lives, as understood by WHO Regional Director Hans Kluge.
