India’s Rising Death Toll from Extreme Temperatures

India is experiencing increase in mortality due to extreme temperatures. A recent study reveals that nearly 35,000 deaths occurred from 2001 to 2019, primarily affecting men. The study marks the urgent need for targeted strategies to address this growing public health crisis.

Study

The study, published in the journal Temperature, analysed national temperature data from the India Meteorological Department and mortality figures from the National Crime Records Bureau. Researchers focused on trends from 2001 to 2019 and examined data from 24 states between 2001 and 2014.

Temperature Trends

The findings indicate a rise in both summer and winter maximum temperatures. The year 2015 was particularly deadly, with 1,907 heatstroke deaths and 1,147 cold exposure deaths. The research shows a clear correlation between temperature increases and mortality rates.

Heatstroke vs. Cold Exposure

The study found that deaths from heatstroke were more prevalent than those from cold exposure. Men were three to five times more likely to die from heatstroke and four to seven times more likely to die from cold exposure compared to women. Working-age men, aged 30-59, were especially vulnerable.

Regional Disparities

Certain states were identified as having the highest mortality rates. Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Odisha, and West Bengal reported the most heatstroke deaths. For cold exposure, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Haryana, and Jharkhand were the most affected.

Gender Analysis

The study brought into light gender disparities in temperature-related deaths. Men are more likely to work outdoors, which increases their risk during extreme temperatures. In contrast, women spend more time indoors, where conditions can also be hazardous due to inadequate ventilation and cooling.

Implications for Policy

Researchers stress the need for state-focused strategies to mitigate preventable deaths. They advocate for the suspension of outdoor work during extreme heat events. The study calls for increased investment in understanding the complex links between climate and health.

Future Research Directions

The researchers aim to investigate indoor heat exposure and air pollution. They plan to analyse hospital records for a deeper understanding of causes of death and related health conditions. Improved data collection will aid in developing effective adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the impact of climate change on public health in India.
2. Discuss in the light of recent studies the gender disparities in temperature-related mortality.
3. What are the socio-economic factors contributing to the vulnerability of certain populations to extreme temperatures? Explain.
4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of state governments in mitigating the effects of climate extremes on health.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the impact of climate change on public health in India.

1. Climate change leads to increased frequency of extreme weather events, resulting in higher mortality rates.
2. Heatwaves and cold spells have been linked to health risks, including heatstroke and hypothermia.
3. Vulnerable populations, particularly outdoor workers and the elderly, face heightened risks.
4. The rise in temperature correlates with increased healthcare costs and strain on public health systems.
5. Adaptation strategies are essential to mitigate health impacts, such as improving infrastructure and health services.

2. Discuss in the light of recent studies the gender disparities in temperature-related mortality.

1. Recent studies indicate that men are more likely to die from extreme temperatures than women, particularly from heatstroke.
2. Working-age men (30-59 years) are especially vulnerable due to outdoor occupational exposure.
3. Women spend more time indoors, which may expose them to different health risks like poor ventilation.
4. Gender roles influence exposure and vulnerability; men engage more in outdoor labor while women face indoor hazards.
5. Further research is needed to understand indoor conditions and their impact on women’s health during extreme temperatures.

3. What are the socio-economic factors contributing to the vulnerability of certain populations to extreme temperatures? Explain.

1. Poverty limits access to resources for cooling and healthcare, increasing vulnerability during temperature extremes.
2. Occupational exposure, especially in agriculture and construction, places lower-income workers at higher risk.
3. Geographical disparities affect access to infrastructure and health services, exacerbating health outcomes.
4. Education and awareness about climate risks and protective measures are often lower in marginalized communities.
5. Inadequate housing conditions, such as poor insulation and ventilation, increase susceptibility to health risks from extreme temperatures.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the role of state governments in mitigating the effects of climate extremes on health.

1. State governments can implement heat action plans, like those in Andhra Pradesh, to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves.
2. Investment in public health infrastructure, such as cooling centers and emergency services, is crucial for response efforts.
3. Regulating outdoor labor during extreme temperatures helps reduce occupational health risks, as seen in some states’ labor policies.
4. Public awareness campaigns can educate communities about risks and preventive measures related to climate extremes.
5. Collaboration with research institutions can enhance data collection and inform evidence-based policy-making for health adaptation strategies.