A comprehensive study published in Nature Medicine has revealed the stark impact of heatwaves on European mortality rates, with an estimated 47,690 heat-related deaths recorded in 2023. This figure represents the second-highest mortality rate since 2015, underscoring the growing threat of extreme heat events across the continent.The research, conducted by the Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal), analyzed data from 823 regions across 35 European countries. Southern European nations bore the brunt of the heat-related fatalities, with Greece recording the highest mortality rate at 393 deaths per million inhabitants, followed by Italy with 209 deaths per million, and Spain with 175 deaths per million.Despite these sobering statistics, the study also highlighted the effectiveness of adaptation strategies in mitigating heat-related deaths. Lead author Elisa Gallo noted, ‘Our results show that there have been societal adaptation processes to the high temperatures in this century, which have drastically reduced heat-vulnerability and mortality in the last summers, especially among older people’. The researchers estimate that without these adaptation measures, the death toll could have been 80% higher, potentially doubling among those over 80 years old.As Europe grapples with the findings of this study, parts of the continent are currently experiencing another heatwave. In France, Météo-France has placed 40 departments on orange alert, with temperatures expected to peak at 40°C in some areas. The French meteorological service has emphasized the importance of staying hydrated, cooling off, and avoiding unnecessary outings during the hottest parts of the day.The study and current heatwave serve as stark reminders of the urgent need to address climate change as a public health issue. As Dr. Santi Di Pietro, an assistant professor of emergency medicine, stated, ‘Heatwaves must be tackled at all levels… people can take simple measures to protect themselves and their loved ones’. With Europe warming at twice the global average rate, according to the World Health Organization, the need for continued adaptation and mitigation strategies has never been more critical.
Key points
- A study published in Nature Medicine revealed 47,690 heat-related deaths in Europe in 2023.
- Southern European countries, particularly Greece, Italy, and Spain, were most affected by heat-related mortality.
- Adaptation measures have reduced potential heat-related deaths by 80%.
- Parts of Europe, including France, are currently experiencing another heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 40°C.
Contradictions👾While most sources agree on the figure of around 47,000 heat-related deaths in Europe for 2023, there are slight variations in the exact number reported across different articles.
