nuOct 28, 2026, 00:00

Heat, drought and disease: climate change takes a heavy toll on health

A global report from the Lancet Countdown reveals that climate change is a mounting threat, causing 540,000 heat-related deaths annually and increasing the spread of infectious diseases. Researchers urge for faster decarbonization and the recognition of climate change as a health emergency, noting that current progress is insufficient to protect global populations.

A new Lancet Countdown report, involving nearly 150 researchers, highlights that extreme heat causes approximately 540,000 deaths annually. Climate change is also fueling increased rates of drought and the spread of infectious diseases, including the West Nile virus, which has become established in the Netherlands. Beyond direct health impacts, extreme weather and heat lead to over 1,000 billion dollars in economic losses each year, disproportionately affecting regions like Southeast Asia and Africa.

While the expansion of renewable energy has helped reduce deaths related to air pollution, researchers warn that global progress in mitigating climate change remains too slow. The report emphasizes the paradox of air conditioning, which saves lives but contributes to emissions, and urges policymakers to prioritize health in all climate decisions. Experts are calling for the formal recognition of climate change as a global health emergency to better protect vulnerable populations and meet international climate targets.

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Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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