Climate Crisis Drives Record Heat-Related Deaths and Health Risks in 2023

A report released on Tuesday, October 29th from The Lancet Countdown highlighted record levels of heat-related deaths and health impacts worldwide, attributing these increases to escalating climate change. This report, detailing the global health consequences of rising temperatures, revealed that extreme heat waves, droughts, and wildfires in 2023 impacted millions, worsening health risks and endangering vulnerable populations. Dr. Marina Romanello, the report’s lead, called the findings “the most concerning yet,” warning that the current pace of fossil fuel use threatens global health advancements.

According to the report, 2023 marked a grim milestone, with over 48% of global land experiencing extreme drought while temperatures remained dangerously high for an unprecedented additional 50 days compared to past averages. This persistent heat led to a 167% increase in heat-related deaths among those over 65 compared to the 1990s. Furthermore, climate-related factors caused a record increase in lost sleep, with populations experiencing 6% more hours of sleep disturbance, negatively impacting physical and mental health.

The climate crisis exacerbated food insecurity, pushing 151 million more people into moderate or severe hunger, largely due to extreme weather impacting crop yields. Additionally, hotter and drier conditions drove the spread of infectious diseases like dengue and malaria, with higher temperatures enabling these diseases to move into previously unaffected regions. Sand and dust storms, triggered by arid conditions, contributed to a 31% rise in harmful air pollution exposure, particularly affecting respiratory health.

Experts like Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, labeled the crisis a “health emergency,” urging nations to curb emissions and protect populations from climate extremes. António Guterres, United Nations Secretary-General, echoed this call, emphasizing the urgent need to “slash emissions” and transition away from fossil fuels to avoid worsening global health risks. 

While The Lancet Countdown stresses immediate climate action, it also highlights the potential health benefits of green policies. Dr. Lea Berrang Ford of the UK Health Security Agency noted that decisions today will shape the climate and health challenges faced by future generations. She advocates for solutions that reduce emissions while improving public health, such as urban cooling strategies and expanded healthcare access.

The report’s findings underscore the urgent call for both public and private sectors to address climate-driven health threats. For policymakers, the data provides a stark reminder that climate inaction continues to jeopardize lives, intensifying calls for a sustainable and health-centered approach to combat global warming.