Hitze und Gesundheit

The target set in the Paris Agreement of staying below the 1.5 °C threshold to limit global warming is not being met. Warming in Europe is stronger and faster than global warming, with an increase in heat extremes. These heat extremes have consequences for human health. In the summer of 2022, more than 60,000 people died in Europe as a result of extremely high temperatures. Heat-related mortality varies according to the occurrence of heatwaves. Air pollution, particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, and ozone exacerbate the effects of heat. Physicians can play an important role in patient care in the prevention of heat-related illnesses and mortality. They can also use their privileged position to actively counteract the consequences and the further progression of climate change through knowledge transfer and their own actions.