In 2024, during a heat wave in Guadalajara, Mexico, people took precautions to protect themselves from the scorching sun. Temperatures soared to over 110 degrees Fahrenheit in many parts of the country, posing a significant risk to the population. While older individuals are known to be more vulnerable to extreme heat, a new study published in the journal Science Advances reveals that young people are also at risk.
According to the study, conducted by environmental scientists at Stanford University, individuals under the age of 35 accounted for three-quarters of heat-related deaths in Mexico in recent decades. Children under 4 years old and young adults between 18 and 35 were found to be particularly susceptible. As climate change continues to intensify, the number of hot and humid days in the country is expected to increase, further putting young people at risk.
The study also predicts a decrease in cold-related deaths in Mexico due to the warming climate. However, this shift in temperature-related deaths means that the burden will fall more heavily on younger individuals. This “surprising inequality across age groups” highlights the complexity of temperature-related deaths in a changing climate, according to Andrew Wilson, one of the authors of the study.
Environmental economist Tamma Carleton from the University of California, Berkeley, who was not involved in the study, explains that while overall deaths from extreme temperatures are projected to decrease in many regions, countries that are already hot will see a significant increase in heat-related deaths. This is especially concerning as these countries have historically contributed the least to human-driven climate change.
The study, which used comprehensive death records from Mexico, sheds light on the impact of extreme heat on people’s bodies. As the climate continues to warm, it is crucial to consider the disproportionate effects on different age groups and regions. By providing up-to-date information and relevant data in a clear and accessible manner, this study aims to raise awareness and encourage action to mitigate the impacts of extreme heat.