As extreme heat becomes the new normal due to climate change, its impact on human health is increasingly concerning.
Beyond immediate dangers like heatstroke, higher temperatures have long-term effects on chronic diseases. The World Health Organization's (WHO) warning about climate change as the biggest health threat is backed by experts, revealing the critical need for action.
Immediate Health Hazards of Extreme Heat
Excessive heat does not always affect the human body in the long run. As heat strokes become more prevalent, people can also suffer from heat exhaustion. In the worst cases, people can acquire sudden disability and death.
Emergency department visits during extreme heat often see a surge in heart attacks and strokes, demonstrating the body's vulnerability to heat-related stress.
Over time, climate change's impact can be felt at an extreme level. When this further worsens, the air quality will become poorer. If this escalates, the respiratory issues of humans will further worsen and this could quickly take effect in younger people.
"There are really direct relationships between climate and health, and what we're seeing in many cases we could call 'climate-exacerbated disease,'" Dr. Christopher Tedeschi, director of emergency preparedness for emergency medicine at Columbia said.
Wildfire smoke introduces hazardous gasses and particles, impacting respiratory health in the long term. Heat and drought conditions fuel intense wildfire seasons, predicted to worsen with a warming planet.
Additionally, disease-carrying insects like mosquitoes and ticks thrive in milder winters, expanding their habitats and increasing reported illnesses.
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The Rise of Heat-Resistant Fungi
Heat-resistant fungi are emerging as a health concern, affecting the body's natural defense against infection. As temperatures rise, traditional fungi that thrive at 77°F are outcompeted by more heat-resistant strains. The potential health consequences of these new fungi are now a major concern for medical experts.
That's not the only problem that the excessive heat brings. Extreme heat's health impacts may overwhelm emergency departments, exacerbating the existing healthcare worker shortage. Overcrowded emergency rooms during heatwaves and air quality events pose challenges in effectively managing climate-related disasters.
Global Heatwave
In Europe, the UK government is currently preparing for the huge heatwave that can bring 55mph wind gusts, not to mention heavy rain. At that point, people should expect minor to major disruptions of the facilities.
In China, aside from heatwave, flood is prompting the residents to evacuate to a safer area. With early warnings about crop destruction and power grid shutdown, the government needs to act quickly before it's too late.
Read Also: New Record: World's Hottest Day Ever Recorded on Monday, July 3, 2023
