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Global Bioweather

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The Mortality Rate of Heatwaves

Heat injures and kills, as we can see from the thousands of people who die of heat-related illnesses each year. In 1996, Pakistan and India experienced temperatures of up to 49°C in the shade; people died or were hospitalized for heatstroke, circulatory collapse or dehydration. The Indian press reported a death toll of 2500, but acknowledged that the number was probably much higher. The US experienced two particularly disastrous years: according to the Centres of Disease Control and Prevention, 1700 Americans died in 1980. The US National Weather Service reported 1021 deaths in 1995. In the UK and the Netherlands, temperatures above 25°C appear to have a close relationship with death rates for most diseases, excepting cancer.

Depending on the research methods, the figures that each government agency publishes often conflict. They have to rely heavily on death certificates and/or hospital reports issued by a medical officer. But how do these medical professionals classify a heat-related death?

A person died of a heart attack. Did the heart surrender to the demand of the body’s temperature control mechanism to pump large amounts of blood to the skin? Another person drank a considerable amount of alcohol during a hot day. Did the person die as a result of the toxic effect of alcohol, or due to a heatstroke? The heat most likely played a role in both cases. But would the person have lived under different circumstances? What was the primary cause?

These questions can lead to the speculation that the actual heat-related death toll is considerably under-reported. Critics suggest that the official figures should be up to twice as high but even as they currently stand, heat mortality rates are too high.

The media always seems to be preoccupied with death rates. We shouldn’t forget the many victims left with permanent health damage. A lack of records makes it hard to determine the number of people who become ill. But for every dead person there must be many more survivors burdened with brain, kidney or liver damage. Some will become heat intolerant and will be in particular danger when the next heat wave comes around.

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The Mortality Rate of Heatwaves

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