Spatial and sociodemographic heterogeneities in climate-related mortality: a systematic literature review

Sirinya Kaikeaw, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna
William Kemp, Università di Bologna
Rosanna Gualdi, Alma Mater Studiorum - Università di Bologna
Raya Muttarak, University of Bologna

Extreme temperatures present a major public health threat, especially with rising global temperatures. Mortality risks from climate extremes vary geographically and socially, highlighting the need to identify vulnerable populations. This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of population heterogeneity in mortality risks associated with climate extremes on a global scale. A total of 11,318 studies from Web of Science and Scopus were screened, with 211 included in the review. Findings show a U-shaped relationship between temperature extremes and mortality, with increased deaths during both heat and cold periods. Females, older adults, and those with lower education levels were most at risk. Urban areas faced higher mortality during heat waves, while rural areas were more vulnerable during cold spells. Higher latitudes experienced more deaths from cold, whereas lower latitudes, such as South Asia and Africa, saw higher mortality from heat, with a dual burden of both cold and heat risks. Despite reviewing a substantial body of literature, there is limited representation of studies on natural hazard-related mortality, highlighting the need for more research on deaths caused by events like floods and storms. Future research must address these gaps to inform policies that protect vulnerable groups from climate extremes.

Keywords: Mortality and Longevity, Population, Environment, and Climate Change

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